Seán Kyne
Galway West · Fine Gael · Ireland
“Yes, there will be public engagement later today and again tomorrow. Residents in the Shantalla area hope to be able to pop in there tomorrow as well, and councillors will be engaging. I will certainly pass on the Minister's strong view on pushing on with a decision on the transfer of land in relation to the helipad project.”
“I thank the Minister for that response. Certainly, the appointment of the design team is hugely welcome and a positive step. She will be aware of the Mater Hospital during the Covid pandemic and the 98-bed block that was built in two years. These things can be done where there is urgency.”
“In University Hospital Galway over recent years we have seen investment in a 75-bed en suite ward, a temporary emergency department and the new radiation oncology building, but so much more is needed.”
“Both blocks A and B are primarily bed-based accommodation, supported by well-established HSE guidance and standard approval layouts. Considering the loss of a number of years in Galway, would the Minister see merit in engaging with the Department of public expenditure and reform on fast-tracking these design stages?”
“De réir MARA, má tá daoine ag baint agus ag bailiú feamainne le haghaidh úsáid tráchtála, nó méid mór le haghaidh úsáid pearsanta, ní mór dóibh iarratas a dhéanamh ar cheadúnas úsáide ó MARA. Tá na rudaí seo fíorthábhachtach. Níl sé soiléir céard atá ag teastáil ó bhainteoirí feamainne.”
“I thank the Minister of State for his comprehensive response. I welcome the fact that he expects the MPPS to be brought to the Government in the coming weeks. May I assume, therefore, that MARA is not granting licences pending the MPPS? Is that in abeyance? Is there a formal process?”
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“On a slight side note, I am a member of the defence and security committee and we were in Gormanston, County Meath last week to see the investment in facilities there and hear about recruitment into our Naval Service, which goes hand in hand with fisheries protection. There is a way to go but at least there is a positive trend in the recruitment of naval personnel, which will be important for protecting our waters. The European Union has put its faith in the scientific advice about these things. In some ways, that has tied the hands of Ministers over the years, along with the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea. Advice is that and it also has to be advice that is sensible, implementable and agreeable. Rules and decisions that are made must be abided by all relevant participants.”
“I thank the Minister of State for coming here in person. I acknowledge Senator Boyle and Senator O'Donovan for leading off on this Private Members' business about the fishing sector. I do not believe it is ever too late to discuss any of our native and primary industries. In some ways, it has been the poor relation of agriculture, no doubt, since we joined the EEC, which is now the European Union. That is not to say it does not have a future and does not need continued assessment and support. I welcome the appointment of the Minister of State. It is very much an identifiable, stand-alone sector that deserves a Minister of State to deal with the issues.”
“I move: That Seanad Éireann approves the exercise by the State of the option or discretion under Protocol No. 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the area of freedom, security and justice annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, to take part in the adoption and application of the following proposed measure: Recommendation for a Council Decision authorising the opening of negotiations for an agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Korea on the transfer of Passenger Name Record data from the European Union to the Republic of Korea for the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of terrorist offences and serious crime, a copy of which was laid before Seanad Éireann on 14th October, 2025.”
“I move: That Seanad Éireann approves the exercise by the State of the option or discretion under Protocol No. 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the area of freedom, security and justice annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, to take part in the adoption and application of the following proposed measure: Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Justice programme for the period 2028-2034 and repealing Regulation (EU) 2021/693, a copy of which was laid before Seanad Éireann on 29th September, 2025.”
“I move: That Seanad Éireann approves the exercise by the State of the option or discretion under Protocol No. 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the area of freedom, security and justice annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, to take part in the adoption and application of the following proposed measure: Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Union support for asylum, migration and integration for the period from 2028 to 2034, a copy of which was laid before Seanad Éireann on 14th August, 2025.”
“I move: That Seanad Éireann approves the exercise by the State of the option or discretion under Protocol No. 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the area of freedom, security and justice annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, to take part in the adoption and application of the following proposed measure: Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Union support for internal security for the period from 2028 to 2034, a copy of which was laid before Seanad Éireann on 14th August, 2025.”
“I move: That Seanad Éireann resolves that the period of operation of sections 1 to 7 and 9 of the Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2021 (No. 14 of 2021) be extended for a further period of 6 months, beginning on the 1st day of December, 2025 and ending on the 31st day of May, 2026.”
“I move: That the proposal that Seanad Éireann approves the following Regulations in draft: Planning and Development Act 2024 (Modification) Regulations 2025, a copy of which was laid in draft form before Seanad Éireann on 18th November, 2025, be referred to the Joint Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage, in accordance with Standing Order 79(2)(b), which, not later than 2nd December, 2025, shall send a message to the Seanad in the manner prescribed in Standing Order 84, and Standing Order 86(2) shall accordingly apply.”
“You would like to think that money is going to those who drive the taxis and their families. I will certainly request a debate on matters relating to the taxi industry.”
“In regard to proposals there, I know there has been some work on floating wind turbines and I can see that would be of benefit to those areas where there are objections to that whole idea. Senator Gallagher raised the issue of pensions for school secretaries and caretakers, who went on strike, and the collapse in the talks. I am sure the Minister for education, Deputy Hildegarde Naughton, will be re-engaging with those. I will certainly seek an update on that matter for the Senator. Senator Craughwell raised worrying issues regarding the taxi sector and concerns about people being charged €30 while taxi operators are being offered much less by the industry or by owners. That is a worrying issue with regard to taxi pricing because the consumer, at the end of the day, pays a significant amount of money for taxi journeys.”
“Senator Sarah O'Reilly raised issues regarding rural Ireland, the importance of pubs and making local schemes accessible. I agree. I will investigate the matters she has raised and see what plans there might be for those schemes. Senator Cathal Byrne raised Wexford, the disappearance of the coastline and the possible impact for landowners in the first instance but also homeowners who may see their properties under threat. I will ask for a debate with the Minister of State, Deputy Moran. On the specific case of Wexford, the Senator might put down a Commencement debate. Senator Dee Ryan raised an agreement between Shannon Foynes Port, ports in the UK and BrestPort in France in relation to floating offshore wind and suggested sharing experiences. That would certainly seem to be of benefit.”
“Senator Boyle raised the issue of flooding in Bridge Street in Killybegs. I ask him to put down a Commencement matter on this matter. I know work was done at the time on supports for businesses, but I remember from the pictures that it was quite a severe flood at the time, nearly a year ago. The Senator might put down a Commencement matter with the Minister of State, Deputy Moran. Senator Kennelly called for investment in rural transport. He mentioned the case of Abbeydorney. He made a valid point. I will raise the matter with the Minister of State, Deputy Buttimer, and ask him to come in to talk about LocalLink and rural roads as well. The Senator may want to put down a Commencement matter on the specific case, but I will engage the Minister of State on the matter.”
“She talked about Ringfort development and raised concerns about first-time buyers being asked for additional money. Again, I am not sure where I can go with that, but I will certainly raise it with the Minister of State, Deputy Cummins. Perhaps the Senator can put down a Commencement matter on that and on the wider issue of people being impacted in relation to additional money being sought for developments. It is something that could raise its head in other parts of the country as well. Senator Keogan raised the extension of the outdoor seating regulations. While I accept her point, I do not know the exact medium-term plans on that, but I will raise it with it the Minister. I know that this goes to committee and comes back. I am sure it has been discussed at committee, but I will find out and see what the long-term plan is on that.”
“He gave that commitment here in person last week when we had a debate on the greyhound fund and I take his word on that. Senator Comyn raised the needs of Marymount National School in Drogheda and her concerns about the safety of children. She also asked for an update. I suggest that she put down a Commencement debate on this matter. I know the capital plan for the next five years has been agreed within education. I understand a list of schools will be published in relation to that. I hope that Marymount is on that, but if the Senator puts down a Commencement debate on the matter, she might get a more up-to-date answer. Senator Nelson Murray raised Rathmoylon. I lived near there once upon a time, out the Longwood Road. I used to pronounce it differently but I was corrected in that regard, in line with how the Senator said it.”
“The Senator also raised issues relating to road infrastructure and the queues that are being faced on the routes to Dublin. The population is growing, as are the number of cars on the road. We need continued investment in road infrastructure and also in public transport to enhance rail and bus services, whether they are BusConnects services or bus lanes across the country to support commuters on the way to Dublin. Senator Andrews raised the issue of surgical AI. As Senator Kennelly pointed out, there was a debate last Thursday. Senator Andrews said the Minister sat on his hands for 14 months. The Minister, Deputy Heydon, took over in January or February and has not had that long in the role. However, he said that he has told his officials that he wants this report to be published as soon as possible and indicated it will happen this year.”
“The Senator also commended the work of Women's Aid and its new online tool in relation to domestic violence. Senators Maria Byrne and Martin Conway raised the passing of Donal Carey. May he rest in peace. Our sympathies go to Joe, Leonara and Donal Jnr. As has been said, Donal was a consummate constituency politician, a former Minister of State, a TD and a Senator. He was involved in programmes relating to rural Ireland back when he was a Minister of State during the rainbow coalition. Our thoughts go to his family and friends in County Clare and across the country. Senator McCarthy raised the great work of Tiglin and the South East Technological University in supporting those with addiction and those who fall into homelessness in terms of education and how that can transform lives. I agree with that.”
“I thank all Senators for their contributions. Senator O'Loughlin raised the issue of community pharmacies and the importance of shopping locally. Senator Pal Daly also raised this matter in relation to Black Friday. The concerns are that foreign multinationals are availing of supports from Irish consumers when there are local businesses that need to be supported. I fully agree in relation to the proper marketing and adjudication of Irish businesses in that regard. As Senator Daly said, local businesses support their local GAA clubs and different clubs and should be supported as well. Senator O'Loughlin also raised issues in relation to Kildare's child poverty profile. I will request a debate with the Minister, Deputy Foley, in that regard.”
“and to conclude at 2.15 p.m., if not previously concluded, with the motions to be discussed together, the time allocated to the opening remarks of the Minister not to exceed ten minutes, group spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes, all other Senators not to exceed five minutes each, time may be shared, and the Minister to be given not less than ten minutes to reply to the debate; No. 7, Private Members' business, Disability (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2023 – Report and Final Stages, to be taken at 2.30 p.m. and to adjourn at 4.30 p.m., if not previously concluded; No. 8, Irish Film Board (Amendment) Bill 2025 – Committee and Remaining Stages, to be taken at 4.30 p.m.; and No. 59, motion 2 regarding the fishing industry, to be taken on the conclusion of No. 8 and to conclude after two hours, if not previously concluded.”
“4, motion regarding a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Union support for asylum, migration and integration for the period from 2028 to 2034, No. 5, motion regarding a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the justice programme for the period 2028 to 2034 and repealing Regulation (EU) 2021/693, and No. 6, motion regarding a recommendation for a Council decision authorising the opening of negotiations for an agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Korea on the transfer of passenger name record data from the EU to the Republic of Korea for the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of terrorist offences and serious crime, to be taken at 12.45 p.m.”
“I join with the Cathaoirleach in welcoming the ambassador and I wish all of the Romanian people here well on their national day. The Order of Business is No. 1, motion regarding Planning and Development Act 2024 (Modification) Regulations 2025 - referral to committee, to be taken on the conclusion of the Order of Business without debate; No. 2, motion regarding the proposed approval by Seanad Éireann of an extension to the Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2021 for a further period of six months, to be taken on the conclusion of No. 1 without debate; No. 3, motion regarding the proposed approval by Seanad Éireann of the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Union support for internal security for the period from 2028 to 2034, No.”
“Obviously, Meath County Council can apply for sports capital grants and local clubs, with agreement from Meath County Council, can also apply for those grants for AstroTurf and playgrounds. I do not think CLÁR covers that area of Meath, so LEADER would be the way to go for a playground, but if land is available for the county council or the local community, there are schemes. If no land is available, that is a bigger challenge and people would have to look for land elsewhere through Meath County Council. I certainly wish the Senator well in her advocacy for that community.”
“We had confirmation prior to the change of Ministers that there would be a defence debate, but I will request with the new Minister for Defence that that be continued over the next number of weeks. Senator Scahill also raised the issue of access and inclusion in childcare in relation to capital investment. He mentioned Councillor Liam Callaghan, cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, and the good work he is doing and is involved in there. The childcare section of the capital plan is due to be published soon. I certainly hope there will be good news in that on the roll-out of additional capital funding for childcare places because these are very badly needed. Senator Nelson Murray mentioned Johnstown in Navan, where there is a lack of facilities for 12,000 people in 4,000 homes. I am not sure whether any lands are available at all.”
“I am not sure if it is the Minister, Deputy O’Brien, or the Minister for housing, Deputy Browne, who is responsible. Maybe that is part of the problem. I am not sure which of them will be reimbursing that money. I presume it is the Minister, Deputy Browne. That might be the issue in terms of what exact pot the reimbursement is meant to come from. That is of no use to the local authorities that have to balance their books and have spent that money, however. I will request that as well. Senator Brady spoke about the emotional scenes with the return of the 125th Infantry Battalion from Lebanon. He is right to say that UNIFIL will wind down at the end of 2026. Certainly, we do not know what will be left behind once UNIFIL leaves and what impact it will have on the people in the area. He has asked for a debate. We have a request in for that.”
“I am not sure what case the chief executive officer put forward in that regard but, obviously, the democratically elected councillors voted on it. Certainly, it is beholden on all the councillors to ensure that any additional funding raised is put back into the maintenance and improvement of flats and council houses. Senator Cathal Byrne raised derelict properties owned by the HSE, which is quite a specific issue. I suggest he puts down a Commencement matter regarding the two properties he mentioned in Enniscorthy and Wexford town to see exactly what plans the HSE has. Senators Ahearn and Scahill raised the issue of Storm Éowyn and the lack of reimbursement to local authorities in relation to money spent on that. Again, I will raise that with the relevant Minister.”
“There are numerous issues at stake such as predation, warming oceans, feeding grounds and, obviously, super trawlers and the likes across the country. I know Inland Fisheries Ireland does a lot of very important work in the area of science, so it will know the exact results coming back regarding returns to the River Moy. There is also predation from seals in many of the mouths of our coastal rivers. That may be the case there as well. Senators Andrews and McCarthy spoke about the raising of council rents as part of Dublin City Council's budget vote yesterday. As I understand it, the overall budget vote passed with 31 votes in favour and 30 against. I think this has been flagged for a period of time.”
“I know there has been some progress in relation to the national adaptation plan and moving towards the transition away from fossil fuels. There has also been progress with our climate adaptation finances. I will request a debate with the Minister, Deputy O'Brien, in that regard. Senator Costello paid tribute to Garda Emer Lamon, who is involved with the Little Blue Heroes and has been named as the Tallaght person of the year. I wish her well and I thank her for the role she has played over the last number of years with this. Senator Duffy raised the issue of Inland Fisheries Ireland and salmon anglers on the River Moy having reduced access to salmon fishing for next year. There are many challenges with salmon coming back to our rivers. The number of smolts that leave and return is a very low percentage.”
“I have dealt with many families who would want to look after their loved ones all the time if they could, but they are physically unable to do so. They need that respite and break. I ask the Senator to submit a Commencement matter regarding the specific challenges in Cork. I presume it is a staffing issue rather than a funding one. He mentioned the additional €600 million, which is certainly welcome, although I do not know whether it will involve additional respite hours. The Senator is right about the importance of the role. Carers are doing the job for the State. I ask the Senator to put down a Commencement matter on that issue specifically for Cork and I will see if we can get a debate on the matter as well. Senator Noonan requested a debate on the COP Belém talks as we look forward to COP31. I will request that.”
“Senators O'Loughlin and McCarthy raised issues relating to the leadership role of women in the context of the women’s business network. Senator O'Loughlin spoke about access to credit and mentioned that LEO supports do not apply to services. She highlighted an organisation that has won a tender for mentoring women across the island under the shared island fund. Senator O’Donovan raised the challenges and deficits of respite care in west Cork and other parts of the country. A number of years ago, the issue related to funding but now it relates to getting the staff to carry out the caring and getting the respite hours for someone to go in to provide that respite care for people. I can only imagine it. The Senator mentioned people who have never gotten respite care. It is a huge challenge.”
“Senator Higgins talked about the conflicts in Palestine, Sudan and Congo. Senator Duffy raised the local groups in Mayo who are involved in raising awareness and supports for women, and Senator Comyn likewise raised the offline and online issues. Senator Flynn raised the safe spaces and refuges for women and children, as did Senator Cosgrove, with regard to the lack of refuges in her own area. She also acknowledged the 303 children and 12 teachers from St. Mary's Catholic School in Nigeria who were kidnapped over the weekend and the last number of days. I hope they will be found safe and well. I will request a debate on this area of violence against women and raising awareness, as well as the issue of refuges.”
“I thank all Senators for their contributions this afternoon. One of the most common themes was recognition of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, raised by Senators O'Loughlin, Clonan, Higgins, Duffy, Comyn, Flynn, McCormack and Cosgrove. I join them in paying recognition to this important day, and indeed 16 days of awareness-raising about violence against women. Senator O'Loughlin also talked about catfishing and the need for evolution of technology, and called for a debate with the Minister. Senator Clonan talked about the realities of Sharia law, the mutilation of women in Afghanistan and the attack of a woman here in Ireland, Caitlin Hassan, and adult safeguarding legislation. Senator McCormack talked about the Sinn Féin Bill in this area.”
“2, Courts and Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2025 – Second Stage, to be taken at 6.15 p.m., with the time allocated to the opening remarks of the Minister not to exceed ten minutes, group spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes, all other Senators not to exceed five minutes, time may be shared and the Minister to be given not less than ten minutes to reply to the debate.”
“The Order of Business is No. 1, Employment (Contractual Retirement Ages) Bill 2025 – Second Stage, to be taken at 4.45 p.m. and to conclude at 6.15 p.m. if not previously concluded, with the time allocated to the opening remarks of the Minister not to exceed ten minutes, group spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes each, all other Senators not to exceed five minutes, time may be shared and the Minister to be given not less than ten minutes to reply to the debate; and No.”
“One assumes they have to approved by the Irish medicines agency or the EU medicines agency. Perhaps the Senator will put down a Commencement debate for the Minister for Health on that issue. Senator Duffy spoke earlier about the briefing. I commend him and welcome Niall Rochford from Ashford as well. Personal testimonies were presented in the audiovisual room earlier in connection with World Pancreatic Cancer Day. I have read out the key ask that at least one rapid diagnostic pancreatic cancer clinic be set up, where patients can be seen and investigated within two weeks of referral. We will certainly take that up further with the Minister. I thank our guests for their attendance today and for briefing and inspiring so many Senators to raise this matter this morning. We intend to follow up on their concerns.”
“The Minister, Deputy Heydon, has received an additional €85 million this year to compensate for TB, bringing the total to €157 million. That is reflective of the increased rates of TB and the increased value of our beef animals over the last couple of years. It is certainly important, and the cap on pedigree animals in particular is an issue that has been raised with me recently as well. Senator Nelson Murray raised the topic of insurance premiums and the proposed code. I will check out exactly where that is at. Certainly, transparency and visibility on how premiums are calculated is crucial. I will raise that as well. Senator Scahill raised the health concerns about UK and improperly branded vapes being available here in stores. I do not know if they are illegal or not.”
“Senator Crowe rightly raised the issue of damage to public property. We have seen a number of examples in the last couple of weeks of damage and destruction of playgrounds and play facilities. They are so important for children and young people. To see those facilities blatantly destroyed, it is hard to fathom the mentality of it. I will certainly bring it up with the Minister as well, in respect of whether there is a need for additional investment in CCTV or other ways of ensuring that valuable State investment and that valuable asset for a community are protected. Senator Gallagher called for a debate on TB. It is a scourge that has been with us for so long. It has a huge emotional and mental impact for farmers, particularly where there is full destocking of a herd.”
“Unfortunately, where you are born, the circumstances you are born into, the family you have and the pressures you are surrounded by are in some ways a postcode lottery. I will request a debate on the rights of children as well. Senator Andrews raised concern about there being no Christmas market in Dublin Castle this year or next year. I do not know the exact reasons there is no Christmas market this year in Dublin Castle. I invite the Senator to come down to Galway, where Eyre Square is already looking splendid with the wonderful Christmas market and the Ferris wheel all lit up. For people in Dublin and tourists alike, it is important that there is investment in terms of the public realm and the Christmas atmosphere. The Senator might put down a Commencement matter on exactly why there was no Christmas market this year in Dublin Castle.”
“I agree that the excellent beef standards, traceability of livestock and farm to fork procedures that we have in this country and are renowned for have to be maintained in any trade deals across the world, and that includes Mercosur. I will request a debate with the Minister for agriculture on this issue. Senator Murphy O'Mahony raised the topic of World Children's Day, the conventions on the rights of the child and the work being done at committee level on child poverty and deprivation. The mantra that we should allow a child to be a child is important. Children are the products of the environments in which they are raised. The State needs to be there to provide support where parents do not have the wherewithal or where there are other issues that are impacting on a child's life.”
“The cancer strategy has been successful over the years. The problem is that the lower hanging fruit or easy wins have been achieved. It is becoming harder and harder with every strategy to have that level of success, but it is still important that we endeavour to improve cancer survival rates and access to treatment and rapid diagnoses. I will certainly bring that up with the Minister. Senator Brady raised the matter of the article in the Irish Farmer's Journal, which relates to its visit to Brazil and concern about the use of over-the-counter antibiotics in Brazilian cattle and that Brazilian beef would find its way here if the Mercosur agreement were ratified.”
“Senator Clonan called for a debate on defence and security, while Senator Murphy called for a debate on the North-South shared island initiative and North-South health co-operation. There are common themes there and I will request a debate with the new Minister for foreign affairs and defence, Deputy McEntee. Senators Wilson, Boyhan, Conway and Scahill referenced World Pancreatic Cancer Day. I commend Senator Duffy on organising this morning's briefing held in the audiovisual room. The main ask from Pancreatic Cancer Ireland is that there would be at least one rapid diagnostic pancreatic cancer clinic where patients can be seen and investigated within two weeks of referral. I will take that up the Minister, Deputy Carroll MacNeill. I will also call for a debate on the national cancer strategy.”
“I am a bit hoarse this morning. Senator Costello started off with a number of local organisations. I wish CARP Killinarden, the people behind the south Dublin age-friendly strategy and Tallaght TU Dublin well in their endeavours. In particular, I wish CARP Killinarden well on their 30 fantastic years working for the local community. Senator Boyle raised concerns about the domiciliary care application form. I agree with him that it is certainly onerous. For some parents, it can be arduous and take a long time, and assistance would be of benefit. I will raise that with the Minister, Deputy Calleary. Perhaps Senator Boyle could ask his colleagues on the social welfare committee to raise it at that forum as well.”
“I thank all of the Senators for their contributions. The common theme was one of best wishes to Senator Wilson on his birthday. I join the other Members and wish him well. I hope he enjoys the day and the weekend.”
“The Order of Business is No. 1, report of the Committee of Selection, to be taken on the conclusion of the Order of Business, without debate; and No. 2, motion regarding the proposed approval of Seanad Éireann of the Horse and Greyhound Racing Fund Regulations 2025 - back from committee, to be taken at 11.45 a.m. and to conclude at 1 p.m., if not previously concluded, with the time allocated to the opening remarks of the Minister not to exceed ten minutes, group spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes, all other Senators not to exceed four minutes, time may be shared, and the Minister to be given not less than eight minutes to reply to the debate.”
“It is important that there are rules, people know what they are and that they are fair but firm in relation to those who seek help in this country while also acknowledging the valuable role played by so many legitimate people who come here on visas to work in so many important loving and caring sectors in our communities. I welcome that we tabled this motion and that we have generally had a very respectful debate on what can be an emotive and difficult issue, and one which, unfortunately, has been hijacked in certain instances. A soundbite on social media is not a mature debate on an important issue like this.”
“Many of them are coming via the United Kingdom. Despite the last Government in the UK having an official policy called stop the boats, it was not able to deal with the situation, and many of the people who are coming here are coming across the land border with the United Kingdom via Northern Ireland. These things are not simple. They are quite difficult to deal with. However, at the end of the day we are dealing with human beings. As I said, we are a generous country, but we also need to ensure that we have a rules-based migration system. That is to be fair to people who live here but also fair to people who may be coming here so that they are not coming under false pretences and being misled by traffickers who are telling them that, if they get here, they will get X, Y or Z or that they will get a free house or whatever.”
“We know that they have a legal route to come here. We have also looked after and cared for so many Ukrainians who left their country because of the invasion. The majority of us have knocked on doors over recent years. One of the most common refrains I hear from people is that we are bringing too many people to the country. I ask them, "Who do you mean?" We are obviously bringing people who come here with visas and through legal routes. Many Ukrainians have come here following the temporary EU directive and are contributing. Refugees who have legitimate claims under international law have also come and then there are asylum seekers. I often say we are not bringing asylum seekers; they are coming here. We are legally obliged to deal with those asylum seekers and to process their claims. We are not bringing asylum seekers here.”
“That has changed, and in general that change is positive, but the second election was swayed by the fact that the Department proposed that 70 single men would be coming to a very rural community. That caused tension and issues and Members know the history of that. These things are not easy. Irish people are inherently generous and charitable. They have been known to donate to charities all over the world. With the history of famine in our country, they are inherently generous to other parts of the world, but they also do not like to be taken advantage of. We know that so many people come to this country to work. They play a valuable role in our health services, the caring professions, looking after our loved ones in nursing home settings and privately in homes. They are so important in the hospitality, construction and medtech sectors.”
“When my father was dying and being cared for, it was mainly by us, as children and family members, but we did have home help from the HSE. We had a wonderful African lady who came in. She was a worker and I know she has instilled the same value of work in her children. They are workers too. My electoral career has had ups and downs and some of it related to the issue of migration, particularly in 2020 and 2024. One of the issues in 2020 was the lack of information, rumours about IPAS and who was coming and without the information being provided by the Department in relation to the numbers that were coming, their gender, how long they would be here and when they were coming.”
“The Minister of State is very welcome to the Chamber. I acknowledge the work of the Minister of State, the Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan, and the former Minister, Deputy McEntee. When my colleagues and I wrote this motion, we wondered how it would be received. It has generally been received respectfully. Of course, there are differences - that is understandable - but thankfully we have had in general a respectful debate on what is a very important and sometimes emotive topic. There were 15 in my mother's family. Ten of them ended up in Boston and one in London. There were seven in my father's family. Two ended up in Perth, Australia, one in Los Angeles, one in New York and one in Manchester. The remainder of both families stayed at home. Our families moved to the four corners of the world, contributed and did as well as they could.”
“I agree with the Minister of State's opening comment that we all expect improvements due to the funding to Irish Water and that these are essential, rather than optional. It has to prioritise those areas that can deliver homes wherever they are and put in place whatever measures are needed to fast-track investment and the development of homes in our counties, towns and rural settlements for the people of this country.”
“However, we need it to deliver and we need to put in place all strategies and assistance to ensure it delivers. Storm Éowyn exposed many vulnerabilities in the water supply system. Many areas in the worst hit counties were without water for over a week. The inability to connect generators to the electrical systems and pumping stations left homes, farms and businesses in a critical state. This cannot happen again. Uisce Éireann must ensure that all of its plans are generator enabled with the proper switchover facilities. It seems like a no-brainer because it has the generators, but it cannot plug them in effectively to ensure that enough water is pumped. I hope Uisce Éireann has done its analysis and enabling works to ensure that if another Storm Éowyn happens, as it will, there will not be the same impact.”