Michael Lowry
Tipperary North · Independent · Ireland
“Independents supporting the Government helped to shape last year’s budget, with a strong focus on protecting the most vulnerable and securing meaningful, long-term benefits. Earlier this month, the largest-ever increase in the carer's allowance income disregard took effect.”
“People living with a disability continue to face unavoidable additional costs in areas such as transport and healthcare. I welcome the cross-Government work conducted over the past year that has looked at the possibility of a permanent annual cost-of-disability payment.”
“When this Government was formed just over 18 months ago, no one could have predicted the scale of the crisis unfolding in the Middle East, the disruption it would place on global energy markets and its impact on the cost of living in Ireland and across the world. In these times, the value of a capable and stable Government became clear.”
“There is another group of people who cannot be overlooked, namely the self-employed. These people take risks, create employment and contribute significantly to the economy. The self-employed are at a disadvantage in accessing State supports and social protection.”
“Prudent management of our economy is the cornerstone of good government. While people are struggling with the cost of living, they are further infuriated to see public money wasted. This squandering of taxpayers' money is evident across all Departments, State agencies and local authorities.”
“In a moment of global instability, when we need responsibility, unity and a collective effort, Sinn Féin has chosen division, disruption and political opportunism. To bring down a Government at a time like this would have far-reaching consequences for the Irish people.”
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“There is another group of people who cannot be overlooked, namely the self-employed. These people take risks, create employment and contribute significantly to the economy. The self-employed are at a disadvantage in accessing State supports and social protection. They do not have access to the new My Future Fund pension arrangements available to all employees. The Government should start setting out a clear pathway towards inclusion for the self-employed or an equivalent mechanism that will give them the same opportunity as others to build greater retirement security. Fairness for working people must include those who work for themselves. The self-employed make a huge contribution to our economy. In many cases, they are overlooked.”
“Prudent management of our economy is the cornerstone of good government. While people are struggling with the cost of living, they are further infuriated to see public money wasted. This squandering of taxpayers' money is evident across all Departments, State agencies and local authorities.”
“People living with a disability continue to face unavoidable additional costs in areas such as transport and healthcare. I welcome the cross-Government work conducted over the past year that has looked at the possibility of a permanent annual cost-of-disability payment. Budget 2027 should move that commitment in the programme for Government from the discussion phase to delivery and the establishment of this permanent payment. Inheritance tax must be reviewed. The current inheritance tax regime is penal and is not fair or equitable. Families should be able to pass on a home, farm or business without there being an excess tax burden. We must also look at how people without children can pass on an inheritance to nieces, nephews or close relatives without being disproportionately penalised.”
“Independents supporting the Government helped to shape last year’s budget, with a strong focus on protecting the most vulnerable and securing meaningful, long-term benefits. Earlier this month, the largest-ever increase in the carer's allowance income disregard took effect. That is real progress, and we are committed to phasing out the means test entirely during the lifetime of this Government. The central question now is what budget 2027 will do for working people. Last year, income tax bands and personal tax credits were left untouched. As wages rise to meet the growing cost of living, workers are being unduly punished by the tax system. The people in the squeezed middle, the workers who keep our economy moving, need a meaningful tax package in October that will allow them to keep more of their hard-earned money.”
“When this Government was formed just over 18 months ago, no one could have predicted the scale of the crisis unfolding in the Middle East, the disruption it would place on global energy markets and its impact on the cost of living in Ireland and across the world. In these times, the value of a capable and stable Government became clear. This coalition must continue to provide certainty for households, protect our living standards and keep our economy on track. Fuel supports introduced to shield families and workers from surging prices at the pumps have been extended into the autumn. The focus must now turn to October’s budget and the decisions needed to protect people from external shocks, sustain our prosperity and strengthen our economy for the years ahead.”
“It is discouraging thoughtful, talented young people from stepping forward to serve their communities. The Opposition is poisoning the well of potential candidates. This is a time when Ireland needs the best and brightest to help shape our future.”
“Again this week I have seen Deputy Tóibín, for whom I have huge respect, drop the mask of pious virtue and show his true colours. He egged on frustrated people to harass and intimidate and posted the names and numbers of representatives in our Independent group. This form of intimidation is not acceptable in a democratic society.”
“In a moment of global instability, when we need responsibility, unity and a collective effort, Sinn Féin has chosen division, disruption and political opportunism. To bring down a Government at a time like this would have far-reaching consequences for the Irish people. Legislation would stall, vital supports would be delayed and the certainty families, workers and businesses desperately need would be thrown into limbo. Disruption has been Sinn Féin’s modus operandi from the very beginning of this Government. From the day this coalition has been formed, it sought to undermine and sabotage it for the sake of its own political advantage. It is a group of people who would rather see other people fail than build something positive themselves. Then, of course, we had the usual from Sinn Féin. It followed the usual social media hit list.”
“While the country faces the most serious crisis in recent history, with oil supplies disrupted in the Middle East, energy markets in turmoil, there are those in our political system who shamefully are looking to exploit the situation for their own benefit, rather than provide solutions to us to get through this dangerous time. Sinn Féin, and others on the left, have inflamed a very volatile situation. They wanted to cause the country further suffering in a point scoring exercise against the Government. I want to put this on the record today. Sinn Féin is the most hollow, cynical-----”
“It was later infiltrated by undesirables whose only agenda was to cripple the country and bring down the Government. Over the past week, as Independents, we have used our influence for the introduction of specific financial supports for key sectors of the economy, such as haulage, distribution, logistics, school transport, bus operators, farmers and agricultural contractors. In particular, I am happy that sole traders in these sectors can access the support funds. Our Independents, together with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael backbenchers, battled strongly and successfully for a reduction in the Government tax take on fuels and the deferment of the planned increase in carbon tax. This gives a measure of respite at the pumps for the general public who depend on fuel for their daily activities.”
“I am not going to shout but I would like to be heard. This has been a very difficult week for the country and its citizens. People are suffering and under enormous financial pressure due to the cost-of-living increases in the price of fuel due to the war in Iran. It has to be acknowledged that all of us across Government failed to respond effectively in a timely fashion and failed to listen and understand the extent of people’s worry and frustration. We all have encountered anger, resentment and outright hostility, which, in my view, arises from indecision, slow intervention and failure of communications. The protest started out with many aggrieved, hard-working, decent and respectable people who were worried sick about their future.”
“I agree Uisce Éireann needs to communicate the information it has and it needs to have the public's trust. It is important that happens. I was struck by the fact that in recent months we have seen unprecedented rainfall yet very little of that rainwater is captured or stored by homeowners or businesses. We should be doing far more to prioritise rainwater harvesting in our communities. Simple and inexpensive systems are available that could be installed to capture rainwater for non-drinking purposes, such as gardening or cleaning. As well as turning to these big projects that involve extracting water from one region to supply another, we should look at how best we can capture and manage rainfall. We get plenty of it in Ireland and it is guaranteed every year. How can we capture, harvest and reuse it?”
“We are aware the Dublin network is leaking badly. Will there be a large-scale replacement programme to cover Dublin's network or will we be piping fresh new water into a system that is already leaking? We have a poor record in delivering large-scale public projects on time and within budget. Does the Taoiseach have reason to believe this ambitious project will be different from past failures? Does Uisce Éireann have the capability to manage a project of this magnitude?”
“Having been kept updated on the project's development over the years, I understand why the people impacted need certainty that all alternatives have been truly explored before we risk damaging this critical waterway. We should look, for instance, at improving storage capacity closer to where demand exists and at upgrading the infrastructure already available. Will the Taoiseach outline the assessments carried out regarding the impact of the proposed water supply project on local communities along the Shannon? Is Government satisfied with Uisce Éireann's analysis and assessment of the project? Can the Taoiseach explain why the Government believes extracting water from the Shannon is the necessary solution, rather than prioritising greater water storage and resilience measures closer to where demand exists?”
“Businesses along the River Shannon and Lough Derg that rely on the tourism industry are worried about what this could mean for their livelihoods. I am speaking about accommodation providers, local pubs, cafés and small shops. Many of them are small family-run businesses whose enterprises are sustained by the river and the tourism visitors it attracts. Landowners are also raising questions about what the project would mean for them in terms of the construction involved and how this may cause significant disruption. We are all aware of the need for water infrastructure, and particularly in our most populated areas, but it cannot come at the expense of one community's way of life to sustain another.”
“I want to address the proposed water supply pipeline from the River Shannon to Dublin. In what would be the largest water project in the history of the State, more than 300 million litres of water a day will be taken from the River Shannon and transported through approximately 170 km of pipeline to supply Dublin at an estimated cost of €5 billion. Although the Government has described the work to be carried out as an imperative, there are genuine concerns about this project across communities in north Tipperary and the midlands. It will have an impact on one of Ireland's most treasured natural wonders. Local anglers have highlighted the potential environmental impact of the project, especially on migratory fish including trout and salmon.”
“I welcome the Taoiseach's response. In the context of Ireland's European Presidency, the Government must ensure that energy resilience remains at the heart of the agenda and that Irish consumers and industry directly benefit from investments and reform. How is the Mercosur deal panning out in Europe? Decisions are imminent. The Government did a fantastic job on the nitrates directive. I hope we can get a satisfactory resolution to the Mercosur issue. What is the Taoiseach's read on that?”
“As we take on the EU Presidency, we must ensure that Europe plays a decisive and co-ordinated role in supporting member states ,including our own, in delivering affordable and sustainable housing for citizens. I compliment the Minister for agriculture, Deputy Heydon, the Taoiseach and the rest of the Government for negotiating a satisfactory outcome on the issue of the nitrates directive. It is a vital lifeline for our dairy farmers. However, I caution that this success must not and should not be traded for a deal on Mercosur. Mercosur threatens to open the door to a surge of low-standard beef from South America, undercutting the hard work of Irish farmers and risking real damage to one of our most important sectors. What is the Taoiseach's assessment of the current position on Mercosur? What are his priorities for the Presidency?”
“Europe must ensure that innovation is encouraged and that we become a global leader in this space. With our hugely dominant tech sector, Ireland is well placed to drive forward a European agenda that supports emerging industries, promotes ethical AI development and guarantees that citizens' rights remain at the heart of this digital transformation. Housing remains one of the most urgent challenges facing Ireland, and while our problem is acute, we must also recognise that right across Europe, families are struggling with the very same pressures. President von der Leyen referenced this in her state of the Union speech, noting that our collective housing crisis was tearing "at Europe's social fabric".”
“As we prepare for this role, it is essential that the Government sets clear priorities focusing on the issues that will define Europe's future and directly impact the lives of people here at home. On defence, Russia's ongoing brutal war against Ukraine has fundamentally reshaped Europe's security landscape. Every member state has been forced to reassess how we approach defence, both individually and collectively. Ireland's Presidency provides a forum to advance discussions on strengthening Europe's resilience, particularly in areas close to home such as the protection of underseas data and energy infrastructure which are critical both to national and European security. In recent years, we have seen the explosion of artificial intelligence and how it is transforming industries at extraordinary speed.”
“Next July Ireland will assume the EU Presidency. It poses a significant opportunity for our country and a chance to help steer Europe's policy agenda. While some in this Chamber aim to undermine and devalue our EU membership, the reality is that Ireland's joining of the European bloc has boosted our economic success, strengthened our international influence and safeguarded peace on our island. In contrast, the UK economy has nose-dived since they adopted a go-it-alone policy through Brexit. The EU Presidency is a massive opportunity with Ireland centre stage. I hope that in our national interest, those on the Opposition benches will facilitate Ministers and Government in the effective exercise of their roles.”
“Deputy Tóibín’s actions weaken the seriousness of debate around the very substantial and complex issues involved. Our constituents who elect us implore us to work to the best of our abilities to collaborate, to implement reforms and to deliver well-resourced services with accountability, efficiency and productivity. Ireland needs accountability, especially when it comes to protecting our children but political gain should never come at the cost of dignity, particularly when children are involved. The line between advocacy and opportunism is thin. Sinn Féin and Aontú’s strategy is more about visibility than impact. Advocacy should be rooted in empathy and constructive action and not outrage alone. Constant criticism without offering constructive and practical alternatives can make things worse, not better.”
“A paediatric spinal services management unit, led by a consultant orthopaedic surgeon and supported by a multidisciplinary team, has also been established to ensure patients are prioritised appropriately and that waiting times are reduced. Deputy Tóibín has choreographed a moment in the spotlight to grab more time in front of the cameras. As a long-serving Member of this Parliament, I consider it to be cynical and opportunistic. It is one thing to highlight a problem; it is another thing to use it as a megaphone without a plan which risks turning genuine suffering into political theatrics. We should not be diverted from the vital task of improving paediatric spinal care by deliberate orchestrated political manoeuvring. This is a grandstanding proposal that does nothing to improve our health service or the workings of government.”
“Delay and neglect cause pain, suffering and anguish and leave a lasting mark on the lives of these children and their parents. We know the Tánaiste and the Minister for Health, Deputy Carroll MacNeill, met Harvey’s parents, Gillian and Stephen, and other advocates. They agreed to work in partnership on the structure of an inquiry into scoliosis and spina bifida services. This is an important step and demonstrates a genuine commitment to ensuring issues are identified and acted on. Alongside this, significant additional investment has been allocated to strengthen paediatric spinal services, including a ring-fenced theatre and additional outpatient clinics. National and international outsourcing is being activated to maximise capacity and reduce waiting times for patients.”
“I support the Government’s motion of confidence in the Tánaiste, Simon Harris. I know the Tánaiste to be hard working, to be diligent, to be caring and solution driven. As Minister for foreign affairs he is showing leadership in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the war in Ukraine. That is the type of leadership I support and not the political theatre we have seen this week from Aontú in particular. Before I go further, I want to address the tragic death of Harvey Morrison Sherratt. Harvey’s passing has been heartbreaking and devastating for his family. It has raised the public’s concerns for failures in the system and exposed unacceptable delays in paediatric spinal care that must be urgently addressed.”
“Are the Minister and Government concerned about these predictions? What measures can be introduced to deal with what will become a very serious issue?”
“I have a relevant question for the Minister on our ageing population. The Minister's own Department, the Department of Finance, published a report last week which created ripples of alarm. It predicted a population in the Republic of Ireland of between 6.5 million and 7.5 million by 2065. That depends on the level of migration. Such migration includes young people who left Ireland to study or work in recent decades but have plans to return home in the future. Ireland’s pension system currently depends on having up to four workers to fund each retired pensioner. The pension system will be blown away and replaced by what economists define as a financial black hole at the heart of our Exchequer. This report suggests the State’s old-age dependency ratio will increase from 23% in 2022 to 55% in 2065.”
“In this budget, we are seeking a further increase in the income threshold, working towards the full abolition of the means test for carer's allowance in due course. It is said that the measure of a country's greatness is how well it cares for its most vulnerable populations. Few are more vulnerable than our older people. There is much we can do to improve and enrich their lives. The Minister for Health, in these budget negotiations, requires an adequate budget to deal and cope with these issues. The Government has a moral obligation to plan ahead and resource the inevitable increase in demand.”
“Public nursing home places and step-down facilities to assist in recovery from a hospital stay are crucial to making life easier, safer and happier for our senior citizens. Yet, only a fraction of those who need them can access those vital supports. Often, their only option is to rely on family. This can be an onerous task for families and it demands total commitment. Carers' invaluable 24-7 work can go unseen. Without their selfless commitment, we would undoubtedly face an unprecedented crisis. As the Minister knows, our regional Independent group places huge importance on the role of carers. Our efforts have already brought about an increase in the income disregard for carer's allowance.”
“There has been a significant number of improvements over the years in ensuring older people receive the health services, care and support they require in their golden years. However, worrying gaps remain in the complete provision of all-round elderly care. As all elected Members know, supports such as home help and home care packages are struggling due to a lack of personnel to deliver them. At present, there are 4,800 older people sanctioned and funded for home help assistance who have no immediate prospect of support. Daycare centres, meals on wheels, nursing home respite care and basic health services within communities are invaluable for our older generation. However, countless elderly people are denied access to those services.”
“Caring for the elderly in our communities is both a duty and a privilege. Providing an older person with the support he or she needs for both physical and emotional well-being gives that person a sense of worth. During the Covid period, we got a sharp wake-up call on the importance of how we care for our older generation. As the number of deaths of elderly men and women increased on a daily basis, the magnitude of their value was brought into sharp focus. Their loss was enormous. The Covid pandemic left a lasting mark on our society, particularly our elderly. People are living longer and this increase in longevity means we must plan for the future. We must meet older people's needs and ensure they can live contentedly.”
“This review should look at integrating with Local Link services, which already operate in many areas, to create more flexible solutions for families. The review should also consider moving the allocation of bus tickets to an earlier point in the year so Bus Éireann and parents have more certainty and more time to plan ahead. The school transport issue is a recurring one that must be dealt with in an expeditious and fair manner. I hope the review will be conducted in a timely manner and make recommendations to make this system fair, equal and accessible.”
“The situation is made worse by the reliance on the concessionary ticket system. Parents often do not find out until very close to the start of the school year whether their child has secured a seat. When they are not successful it leaves them scrambling at the last minute with no transport options. This is simply unsustainable and must change. I also ask that the Minister of State play a role in ensuring that over-70s are allowed to continue to drive on school bus routes. It is an absolute nonsense to disqualify people from driving a school bus because they have reached the age of 70. The current work permit system is too rigid and does not allow for international recruitment. When will we see the commitment in the programme for Government to commence a review of the school transport system?”
“A child may get a place in one school, but the bus serving that area may not align with the catchment, leaving parents with no viable alternative option. We regularly have parents denied the opportunity to select their preferred school. St. Joseph’s College, Borrisoleigh is a typical example of a progressive school that is losing students seeking to enrol. The school is at a disadvantage because of the existing configuration of school transport. The current system is outdated, unmanageable and unfit for purpose. Families are often caught between two schools and two different bus routes, yet neither may work for them under the current regulations. This creates a huge dilemma for parents who want their children to attend a preferred school, but find the transport rules and catchments do not allow them freedom of choice.”
“Many parents across the country are struggling with the current school transport system. This is particularly acute in rural communities. I have been inundated with irate and anxious parents, especially from the north Kilkenny area of my constituency. A multitude of problems arose within Johnstown, Galmoy, Freshford and Tullaroan. The issues arise where families are on the border or close to the boundaries of school catchment areas. Some of these children wish to attend schools in Kilkenny and Thurles, but are disqualified because of catchment area regulations. Failures, inconsistencies and anomalies cause parents and students distress, aggravation, inconvenience and in many cases a financial burden.”
“I appreciate the Taoiseach's concern. Most people agree that not enough is being done to address the growing cocaine situation in our cities, towns and villages, and even at crossroads. We obviously do not have our fingers on the pulse of what is happening or the extent of it. We need to strengthen and expand current strategies, together with funding new initiatives to counteract the malaise of drug abuse. We need a renewed public awareness campaign showing the dangers and information on supports that can be accessed. We need to increase the number of places available in rehabilitation facilities and improve back-up assistance for those in recovery. Without providing such supports, we are fighting a losing battle. It is a battle that will continue to spiral out of control and could end in tragedy for many of our families.”
“A mid-term review of and report on this strategy were published. As this is the final year of the policy initiative, when can we expect a final report? It would appear to many on the front line that this strategy has not been effective or successful. Given the consistent rise in the numbers seeking help for drug addiction, the overall effectiveness of this approach must be measured. Is it reaching those in danger of dabbling in drugs? Is it targeting those who have tried drugs such as cocaine and are at risk of addiction? Are our support and response systems adequate? What key issues have been identified and not yet addressed?”
“Figures provided by the HSE show that there was close to a 400% increase among females seeking treatment for cocaine addiction between 2017 and 2023. All current indicators show an explosion in cocaine use across society. We are on the verge of a cocaine crisis. It is destructive and alarming. It is a new cancer spreading throughout our society. Behind these disturbing statistics lies the person — a son, daughter, husband, wife, mother or father. Cocaine makes no distinction between the lives it destroys and the lives it takes. Cocaine has gripped people across Ireland by the throat and most are unable to loosen its hold. An increasing number of lives are being decimated. Currently, the problem of drug misuse is tackled in a co-ordinated and integrated way under the national drugs strategy, Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery.”
“According to a United Nations report, statistics show that Irish people are the fourth highest consumers of cocaine globally. Over a short few years, there has been a 171% increase in the number of young people receiving treatment for cocaine abuse in this country. In 2023 alone, over 13,000 people were treated for problem drug use. Four in ten of those cases were first-time presentations. Cocaine is the most common drug responsible for referrals. It accounts for one in three cases, which underlines the chilling fact that we have a serious and ever-growing problem with cocaine use in this country. The problem is growing rapidly with a dramatic rise in the number of young women seeking help to combat their addiction to cocaine.”
“They juggle an indeterminate number of tasks and are driven solely by care, love and the wish of their family member to remain living at home. I strongly urge that the long-awaited adult safeguarding legislation due to be published by the Department be prioritised. The Bill will secure people's right to safety, dignity and respect. It must be subject to regular reviews and it must be widely publicised to make its objectives known and ensure its effectiveness.”
“Many more families would choose to continue caring for older relatives at home if it were financially possible and viable to do so and if the necessary supports were in place. Increasingly, more people are opting to become a family carer for an elderly relative. These family carers provide 24-7 support. They put their lives on hold to ensure their elderly loved ones can remain in the comfort and familiar surroundings of their own homes and communities. They find themselves protecting the safety of the older person, learning to understand their individual needs, managing their medications, dealing with hygiene care and dietary needs, and arranging and accompanying the person to medical appointments. For the most part, they do this without organised suitable transport in place to assist them. Family carers are unsung heroes.”
“As an elderly person's needs increase, the time and effort required to meet them also increase. Eventually, tough decisions must be made to ensure the well-being of everyone is protected. For some, that involves an elderly person entering a nursing home. This can be a difficult decision, particularly when the older person is happy in the family environment. However, mobility issues and medical dependencies may leave little option. Many elderly people, after consideration, are happy to move into a nursing home and enjoy the daily routine that is geared towards their needs. There are excellent nursing homes across the country providing top-class care. The standard of all nursing homes cannot be judged on the basis of one television programme.”
“For generations in Ireland, elderly people were mainly cared for in the family home. It was a given that younger family members committed themselves to caring for elderly parents and grandparents. Most homes throughout the country had three generations under the same roof. It was not always easy but it worked. It had to work because there were very few suitable alternatives available. Ireland today bears little resemblance to the Ireland of those days. Life today is much more demanding. While home care for the elderly continues, financial pressures mean more couples need to have both partners working outside the home to meet their financial commitments. This makes providing full-time care for an elderly dependent family member in the home much more challenging. For many couples, giving up one job may mean losing the family home.”
“It is a sad reflection on Government, on Ireland as a country and on all of us as human beings that we are continuing to let down these children and their families. This is a legacy and current issue that should unite this Dáil into urgent, purposeful and meaningful action to address what is now a national crisis. During negotiations on the programme for Government, our Regional Independent Group made this issue a top priority. We will continue to press for fundamental change and action to ensure that the needs of these children are met in a timely manner.”
“However, the reality is that we are merely touching the edge of an issue that is impacting vulnerable young people in our society. Parents' demands for assessment and diagnosis for their children is what every child in the country deserves. They are pleading for timely assessments for their children. This is the first hurdle on the journey for their child. This is what will guide future decisions. The reality is that this is the hardest, most painstaking and difficult hurdle to cross. The most recent statistics make for sombre reading. They show that an alarming number of children across the country are waiting for assessments. This is a critical first step for early intervention. The outcome is crucial to establish the level and extent of support required.”
“Every other day, I meet parents who are encountering a broken system. Their feelings range from frustration to disillusionment, from anger to despair. Parents have to endure sustained mental anguish. The immense daily pressure is intolerable. The educational and political system has failed them. Parents have reached the limit of their endurance. For years, they have faced a heartbreaking battle for services for their children. They have come to believe, with good reason, that seeking what their children urgently need through the established channels is a fruitless exercise. They have been there and done that. In fact, most have done it many times without results. For years, there have been calls to reform and resource all areas of the additional needs sector. There have been some improvements, which are acknowledged.”
“Raising a child with additional needs is both challenging and rewarding. It is demanding and fulfilling. For parents, it becomes a labour of love in almost every possible sense. They want what is best for their son or daughter. They want their child to have the best possible start in life. They aim to set the best foundation possible to support their child throughout their life. Services for families dealing with autism and other additional needs are totally inadequate. This problem is years in the making. It is a problem that has been in full view and not addressed. As a result, children are being neglected and left undiagnosed for far too long. Even after assessment and diagnosis, very little support is available for parents. Successive Governments and Ministers have paid lip service to their needs.”
“The Minister mentioned TikTok. Recently, the data protection commissioner fined it €530 million for the improper personal data transfer from Ireland and the EU to China. The most common question people are asking since this news broke is why such data would be sent to China. Is it that we do not have the capacity to store it here ourselves? Why was the transfer deemed inappropriate and improper? What was the reasoning and logic was behind the €530 million fine? Did the transfer of this information pose a threat? What was the reason for it? People are also asking what this personal data includes. What kind of personal data is being sent to China for storage? Will the transfer of personal data from Ireland to other countries and continents be an ongoing occurrence? How will that be monitored?”
“Our impressionable young people who are growing up in a world that is dominated by social media are being bombarded by inappropriate content that is becoming more easily accessible. Coimisiún na Meán has a much-welcomed online safety code which is designed to ensure that social media platforms put in place measures to prevent uploading and sharing of harmful content. Will the Minister outline the brief of Coimisiún na Meán?”
“The harsh reality is that, nowadays, absolutely nothing is deemed off-limits. The sheer power of social media has destroyed social conscience. More and more, it is responsible for wiping out respect and basic human values. Insulting, offensive, humiliating and degrading commentary is now the norm. This is mainly triggered by anonymous keyboard cowards. It is a malaise that is going unchecked. What kind of warped mentality leads to the posting of deliberately malicious and vicious tirades against defenceless people? The ferocity and intensity of hateful comments must be acted against. Social media has become the scourge of our times. It is a 24-7 presence and it is saturating the minds of people of all ages. It is destroying lives and we seem powerless to stop it.”