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?”
The complete record
Every one of 1,542 lines we hold for Seán Kyne, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 15 of 31.
“I think he is doing an exceptional job in leading those Departments and in his role as Tánaiste. It is a very busy role. Obviously there will be a motion before the House, which will be done-----”
“I am not sure if everyone here or anywhere else actually knows what blood type they might be. That would be a good start in relation to this. There may be reasons people cannot give blood and we have to respect that but the Senator raised valid points in relation to the average age and the maximum age and whether changes could be made there. If the Senator puts it down for a Commencement debate she might get a more direct response on the matter. It certainly is a very worthy issue. The Senator also raised the issue of the confidence motion in the Tánaiste. As the Minister for Defence and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade he has a very busy role with the two Ministries, as well as leading the party and everything else. There is a lot of foreign travel involved.”
“I thank all Senators for their contributions, starting with Senator O'Loughlin, who raised baby loss awareness and the great work of Féileacáin. I concur with her comments. Féileacáin should be supported at every opportunity. Senator O'Loughlin also raised an issue about a local library and complaints from people in relation to the use of space for people with disabilities. It is a worrying development. I hope that a resolution can be found and that the adults and children who were using those services find an alternative space, if that is needed. That is to be decided by the powers that be within the local authorities and the users. Senator Nelson Murray raised the issue of critical blood supply. I commend the Senator for being a blood donor and volunteer. It is a very important role.”
“The Order of Business is No. 1, the third report of the Committee on Parliamentary Privileges and Oversight, on the amendment of Standing Order 111A, to be taken on the conclusion of the Order of Business, without debate; No. 2, Defamation (Amendment) Bill 2024 – Committee Stage (resumed) to be taken at 1 p.m. and to adjourn at 4 p.m. if not previously concluded; and No. 3, statements on the all-island rail review, to be taken at 4.30 p.m and to conclude at 6 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 seven minutes, all other Senators not to exceed four minutes, time may be shared, and the Minister to be given not less than ten minutes to reply to the debate.”
“I move: That the proposal that Seanad Éireann approves the following Regulations in draft: Planning and Development (Exempted Development (Act of 2000)) Regulations 2025, a copy of which has been laid in draft form before Seanad Éireann on 7th October, 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 21st October, 2025, shall send a message to the Seanad in the manner prescribed in Standing Order 84, and Standing Order 86(2) shall accordingly apply.”
“and shall conclude no later than 12.30 p.m., and shall consist of: (i) a speech of welcome by the Cathaoirleach which shall not exceed 4 minutes; (ii) an opening Statement by An Taoiseach which shall not exceed 10 minutes; (iii) a contribution by the Leader of the House which shall not exceed 5 minutes; (iv) a contribution not exceeding 5 minutes by other Group Leaders (time may be shared); (v) a contribution not exceeding 3 minutes by other Senators (time may be shared); (vi) a concluding response of not less than 10 minutes by An Taoiseach; (vii) a speech of thanks by the Leas-Chathaoirleach which shall not exceed 2 minutes; (c) Standing Order 32 shall stand suspended; (d) No other business shall be taken unless the Seanad shall otherwise order on motion made by the Leader of the House or such other Senator as he may authorise in that behalf in accordance with Standing Order 18; (e) The Seanad on its rising on Thursday, 16th October, 2025, shall adjourn until 2.30 p.m.”
“I move: That, notwithstanding anything in the Standing Orders relative to Public Business, the Seanad, on its rising on Wednesday, 15th October, 2025, shall adjourn until 9.30 a.m. on Thursday, 16th October, 2025, and the following arrangements shall apply: (a) Commencement Matters shall be taken at 9.30 a.m. in accordance with Standing Order 31; (b) Statement by An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, T.D. The proceedings in respect of the Statement by An Taoiseach shall commence at 11 a.m.”
“She may get a direct response but I will raise it with the Minister anyway. Senator Tully raised Garda recruitment and a specific case. Perhaps she might engage directly with the Minister for justice or the Garda Commissioner about a specific case. She can raise the larger issue of the timeline in a Commencement debate, but if she wishes to go into a specific case, I suggest she engage directly with the Minister or Garda Commissioner. Senator McCarthy talked about the innovative child peer-to-peer online safety initiative, which mirrors the "it takes a village" policy. He talked about digital literacy and empowering students. He called for the Minister for education to fund this as part of a national programme. If I get the Minister in to debate the budget, the Senator can raise it at that stage or he can table a Commencement matter.”
“Garda resources are a matter for the Garda Commissioner but the Senator can certainly continue to raise and highlight that in these Houses and with the Minister for justice directly. Senator Andrews welcomed again the deal and respite for Palestinians. He raised matters regarding Dublin city dog pound and the need for investment and a change in policy, including a neutering and chip programme and a national euthanasia policy. I ask him to table a Commencement matter. Senator Cathal Byrne raised Gaza and the need for a two-state solution, which is not part of the 20-point plan, but is something we have to move and aspire to. Senator Sarah O'Reilly raised her concerns about a free HRT team for trans women. I do not have information on that and perhaps the Senator should table a Commencement matter for the Department of Health.”
“As the Senator knows, there is a Cabinet committee on water quality which will hopefully assist in retaining our derogation. Obviously, we have to ensure that the results regarding water pollution improve across all sectors of society. I agree that there has been huge investment in the farming community over the years. That needs to continue and the targeted agricultural modernisation scheme, TAMS, has an important role in that. Senator Scahill raised the matter of Roscommon being the safest place to raise a family, yet there are rising costs of car and home insurance. These are valid points. He also said there is an older population and that may, unfortunately, be reflected in insurance premiums. He also mentioned Garda resources and is concerned that this would result in lower levels of gardaí being allocated.”
“Senator Cosgrove spoke about the need for a breakdown of the allocation of the €8 million for youth work in the recent budget. I know it is stipulated to be for current and capital increases and will support the sustainability and development of youth services, providing tailored supports and spaces for young people. I will ask the Minister, Deputy McEntee, to come into the House, or perhaps the Senator can table a Commencement matter. We will try to get Ministers in, if possible, to talk about their budgets. The Minister, Deputy Burke, will be in today to talk about business. Senator Flaherty raised the EPA results and called for a debate with the Minister, Deputy Heydon, on water quality, particularly the nitrates derogation. I will request a debate on that matter.”
“She also raised matters regarding the cost of cigarettes and vaping, and that there will be a 100% increase in the cost of vape juice. I had not heard the term "vape juice" before. The Senator said it is increasing by 100%. Senator Dee Ryan also raised the matter of taxes on tobacco and vapes for independent grocers. The Minister, Deputy Burke, will be in to speak on budget matters later today, so it may be an opportunity for both Senators to raise that matter with him. Senator Boyle raised the boil water notice for communities in Ardara. It might be an idea to table a Commencement matter or engage directly with Irish Water. There is commitment to additional funding by Irish Water for a range of projects around the country.”
“I hope that all those staff are redeployed and that good use is made of facilities in the centre of the town. Senator O'Donovan talked about fishing communities and the threatened impact of cuts in the mackerel quota, which is our most valuable source. It is worrying for fishing communities across the country. I know the Minister will be engaging as part of the Commission proposals over Christmas. I know he will have much engagement with his officials in ensuring the best deal for Irish fishermen and sustainability for the stock. Sustainability is important for mackerel and, indeed, all stocks to ensure that we have an industry going forward. Senator Collins welcomed the announcement of EuroPride 2028 for Limerick and Clare. I agree and congratulate all involved in that.”
“I will certainly raise it with the Minister. I raised it on behalf of that person over the summer. There are stiff penalties under existing law, but it is about ensuring those laws are enforced and that illegal fireworks are seized. There is also the issue of cross-Border trade and sale. Senator Keogan raised the matter of the Muslim Brotherhood. I confess I am not au fait with that matter. Perhaps if she puts down a Commencement matter for the Department of justice, she may get a direct response. Senator Comyn raised the announced closure of Dunnes Stores in Drogheda, County Louth, and talked about the renewal of our town centres. I welcome the addition, in the budget last week, of Drogheda to the living cities initiative, which has been extended to five towns.”
“Senator Curley talked of the critical skills visa and why two State bodies are duplicating work, the immigration bureau and the RSA. I suggest he puts down a Commencement matter on that. He also raised the matter of the ceasefire and welcomed what has been done. Senator Kennelly raised the issue of illegal fireworks. He has commended that there is an awareness campaign but that An Garda needs additional resourcing. There is the criminal justice Act 2016, which allows for hefty fines and imprisonment for those who are engaging illegally in fireworks. Obviously, properly organised fireworks displays look well and are part of many different festivals and whatever else, but illegal use of fireworks is dangerous. A constituent in my area lost their sight in one eye last year as a result of illegal fireworks.”
“I certainly hope that the 20-point peace plan can be put into being and that we can have a full and permanent cessation of violence and move towards a two-state solution in that area. Senator Black talked of voting rights, and I acknowledge she is having an event later in the audiovisual room. She acknowledged the work of Billy Lawless, a former Member of this House. I will request a debate on this matter. Obviously, we have a huge diaspora around the world, which means that if change were to be enacted, there would be possibly more people outside of the island with a vote than inside. It depends how broad you make it. I will request a debate, and obviously that will be a matter for the people to decide by referendum at a later date if that were to be the case.”
“Senator Dee Ryan raised CORU and the derogations in public service safety and has called for the Minister of Health. I ask her to put down a Commencement matter on that issue. It might get more of a direct response as it is quite specific. Senator Stephenson has proposed an amendment to the Order of Business, that No. 11, which is the Domestic Violence (Free Travel Scheme) Bill 2025 - First Stage, be taken before No. 1. I am happy to agree to that. The Senator also spoke, as did Senators Andrews, Black and others, about the peace deal in Gaza. Obviously, this is the first phase of the peace deal, which is the release of the hostages, and that Israel would withdraw the troops to an agreed line. There is certainly a long way to go.”
“Senator Duffy raised the lack of NCT facilities in the Belmullet, County Mayo, area. He joined with Councillor Gerry Coyle in recommending an NCT centre for Belmullet. I ask him to put down a Commencement matter on that with the Minister of State, Deputy Canney, to see if he can get progress on that matter. Senator Clonan and many others raised the peace deal in Gaza. We will come to that in a while. He also raised the case of Noel McGree and wrongdoing in relation to the Irish Prison Service. I have engaged with Noel on numerous occasions and I am due to give him a call again on that. I will request a debate on whistleblowing. I know he has gone through a lot. Obviously, he is presently going through even more with his eviction. I will engage with Noel on that matter as well.”
“I thank all Senators for their contributions this afternoon. Senator O'Loughlin, who was joined by many other colleagues, expressed sympathies to our colleague Senator Teresa Costello on her dad's passing. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis. Senator O'Loughlin also raised the tragic case of Sarah and the autopsy in relation to inhaling deodorants. She commended Sarah's parents, Deirdre and Joe, who donated her organs to save others, and the Senator called for this very important issue to be highlighted and for there to be engagement on it. I will certainly raise that with the Minister. The Senator also raised the matter of blister packs and multiple medications. I confess I am not particularly au fait with that, but I will engage with her afterwards on that matter.”
“and to conclude 6 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 each, time may be shared, and the Minister to be given not less than ten minutes to reply to the debate; and No. 55(2), Private Members’ business in the names of Fianna Fáil Senators, motion regarding support for Ukraine, to be taken at 6 p.m., with the time allocated to this debate not to exceed two hours.”
“I welcome Delegate Kerr. I hope he has an enjoyable and productive stay. The Order of Business is No. 1, motion regarding the arrangements of the sitting of the House on Thursday, 16 October 2025, to be taken on the conclusion of the Order of Business without debate; No. 2, motion regarding the Planning and Development (Exempted Development (Act of 2000)) Regulations 2025, referral to committee, to be taken upon the conclusion of No. 1, without debate; No. 3, statements on budget 2026 - Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, to be taken at 4:30 p.m.”
“We all say we need more renewables but when the rubber hits the road and there are applications in a local community, whether it is solar or wind, or even nuclear if it came to that, public meetings would be packed out on this. I have seen it up and down the country. People are not happy with projects like this whether they are onshore or even offshore. People are not happy with the impact. I am not sure what the solution is. Guidelines can be brought in but these may not be positively received in some communities. I will request a debate with the Minister for climate, Deputy O'Brien, on this. Every political party and none has talked about the need to increase energy security and increase renewables but when we drill down into it, there are issues. There are certainly communities that are very upset about those matters.”
“I will certainly bring that up with the Tánaiste. The Senator called for a debate on cyberprotection and he mentioned Singapore and what is going on there. I will certainly request that. Senator McCormack mentioned the situation in Gaza but also endometriosis and called for a debate with the Minister for Health. I will organise that. Funding of €3 million was provided for research into endometriosis in UCD. That is important. I will request the debate with the Minister on the matter or the Senator might table a Commencement matter to get a more direct response on that particular issue. Finally, Senator Rabbitte raised the issue of renewables.”
“Senator Murphy O'Mahony raised the matter of farm safety and the 16 people, nine of whom were over 69, who passed away this year. It is a very high figure and behind each of those figures is a family, loved ones, neighbours and friends. We will request a debate again. We have spoken with the Minister of State, Deputy Healy-Rae. He is agreeable to come in but Senator Paul Daly has requested that mental health be brought into that debate as well so we are trying to see if we can have two Ministers in at the same time. That is not always practical but we are seeing if we can arrange that. Senator Craughwell raised the issue of Iran where 1,800 hundred people were hung, or as he said, strangled in the past year. There really are atrocities going on in different parts of the world that are hard to fathom.”
“Senator Martin Conway raised the matter of derelict properties and properties owned by the State. There were initiatives in the budget regarding the extension of the living city initiative and changes in the rules from buildings pre-1915 qualifying now to pre-1975. That is welcome and I hope that will make a difference to private properties. Regarding State-owned properties, one would hope there is an inventory somewhere in every State agency that owns property but also that they have plans for that. Sometimes, they may be held up in respect of funding, design, planning permission or whatever. However, no local authority or State agency should have property that is just sitting there. I will request a debate with the Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works on that matter.”
“The BusConnects projects and the bus lanes in different areas are also important to ensure there is a speed and efficiency of travel. Senator Boyhan raised the tillage sector and called for a debate. He mentioned the €50 million for the tillage sector and I wish to acknowledge the work of the Minister, Deputy Heydon, in delivering that. It was important. It was one of the top issues in farming this year. Tillage is often weather-dependent. The sector is dependent on international grain prices. There have been particular challenges in the sector this year so the funding was absolutely needed. I will speak to the Minister. He was in the Chamber prior to the budget on all matters and many Members advocated on tillage issues. I will request a debate with him.”
“On 4 November, the Minister, Deputy Foley, and the Minister of State, Deputy Naughton, will be in the House to talk about matters pertaining to disability, the disability strategy and the budget. Senator Comyn raised the issue of public transport from Drogheda and the inadequacy of the service in ensuing people are brought to UCD and other universities on time. I will request a debate with the Minister for Transport, Deputy O'Brien, on that matter. There is always a need for increased public transport. The more public transport that is provided, the more demand there is. If buses are provided every hour, there is a demand to have them every half hour and if they are every half hour, they should be every 15 minutes, and rightly so. That change, together with better bus shelters for comfort, is needed to encourage better use.”
“I will request a debate on that. She talked about freedom of religion and beliefs. We can all agree, irrespective of religion or beliefs, that there should be freedom to express and to practice those religions and beliefs, both in this country and around the world. I will request a debate on matters in Nigeria. Senator O'Donovan raised budget matters, including the 9% VAT rate and the importance and appreciation of small business owners. He has also called out the hypocrisy of some parties, in particular the Social Democrats and party leader Deputy Holly Cairns in advocating for the 9% VAT rate and the separation of hospitality and accommodation prior to the election and now advocating something else. He is right to call out hypocrisy on that matter. He has also called for a debate on respite care and disabilities.”
“Senator Dee Ryan spoke about business professionals and called for a debate on AI and the national AI office, which has been committed to under the budget, so I will request that from the Minister of State, Deputy Smyth. I am not sure where it is planned to locate it but it is an important step. I know an Oireachtas committee on AI has been established of which many Members here are part. I am sure we will get updates on that in due course. The Senator also spoke about the HIQA report. I have requested a debate on this report as it relates to the mid-west and to Portiuncula hospital, so I will request that again of the Minister, Deputy Carroll MacNeill. Senator Keogan talked about the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Persecution of anybody for religious beliefs is wrong and certainly the atrocities in Nigerian are to be condemned.”
“I presume it is being done through the SEAI or the Department, so perhaps the Senator can put raise it as a Commencement matter. Senator Scahill also raised matters relating to retrofitting and funding for it. He also called for a debate with the Minister of State, Deputy Harkin, and the Minister, Deputy Lawless, on apprenticeships. I spoke to the Minister of State, Deputy Harkin, on Tuesday and she will be coming to the House in the coming weeks to talk about apprenticeships. I know the Minister, Deputy Lawless, is due to come to the House as well to speak about his areas, so we will certainly have an opportunity there to raise those matters.”
“I acknowledge all others who have spoken on the matter as well this morning. Senator Nelson Murray raised the issue of graffiti in her own area in Navan and other areas in Meath and the possibility of having legal spaces for it. Finding such places would be the first step while the second would be targeting those who engage in illegal graffiti. It is certainly unsightly. It is not just found in this country. We see it in different parts of the world. It is not nice, particularly on historic buildings, but anywhere on private or public property. Perhaps this could be raised as a Commencement matter with the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage for a more direct answer regarding funding possibilities. Senator Tully spoke about the Retrofit Ready pilot project. I am not that familiar with it.”
“I thank Senators for their contributions. I start by welcoming back Senator Andrews. I know he had a strong advocate in Senator McCormack, who made ample phone calls on Wednesday evening looking for a debate on Thursday, which was facilitated. I acknowledge the Minister of State, Deputy Byrne, who came to the House on that. Senator Andrews has been a strong advocate on Gaza and his advocacy and publicity around it are important in highlighting the issues. The Senator mentioned peace and justice issues. We hope we will have peace and the deal that was agreed yesterday will work, the hostages will be released, the ceasefire will hold and humanitarian aid will flow. The Senator is right. We need to continue efforts to highlight injustice and deliver justice for the citizens in Gaza.”
“I also welcome the head of mission and Deputy Cahill. I wish all the Spanish citizens living here a happy national day. The Order of Business is No. 1, Defamation (Amendment) Bill 2024 - Committee Stage (resumed), to be taken at 12.30 p.m. and to adjourn at 2.30 p.m., if not previously concluded.”
“The big issue is ensuring that we have people who can do that work. It is very valuable work. Additional gardaí, SNAs and commitments regarding the new DEIS+ programme are important. On childcare places, there has been a focus in the past few years on cutting fees, which is welcome and important for those who have a place but it is of no benefit to those who do not. In some cases, children did have places but the providers pulled out of the schemes, meaning they were left with a situation where they had a place but were paying the higher fees. Increasing capacity, which is the focus of this budget in respect of childcare, is certainly welcome. It is important because we know there is a need. Listening to other people talk about reduced fees is of no benefit to those who cannot get a place.”
“The record level of expenditure, in particular capital expenditure, on housing is absolutely necessary. I mentioned the VAT cuts yesterday so I will not mention them again today. As I have said often, every type of house and apartment is needed from private, cost-rental, social, affordable to approved housing bodies, downsizing, rightsizing and student accommodation. Every type is important to alleviate the situation we are in. I welcome the increase in the carer's allowance disregards. It was committed to by all parties, I think, before the previous election in manifestos. We gave a commitment over the lifetime of the Government. I welcome what has been done. The announcement on children's allowance is welcome. There is a focus on child poverty issues as well as the increase in home help hours and home supports for our elderly.”
“This time last year, we probably did not think there would be a tariff war. We do not know what situations we will face. It is always important to have money set aside. The Future Ireland Fund and the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund are necessary. By the end of next year, it is projected that there will be €28 billion in those funds and by the end of this Government's term, €40 billion. That is for threats that may happen in the future to allow for resilience. A lot of positive measures were lobbied for. People mentioned education issues in relation to the capitation grant. The INTO has struggled on this for a long number of years and has raised this every year. I welcome the increase in capitation announced by the Ministers for Education and Youth and Finance yesterday.”
“It is because of the hard work of the Irish people, first of all, the decisions of successive Governments, the entrepreneurial spirit of those who create jobs, start-ups and invest in this country, and the work of IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, Údarás na Gaeltachta. The IDA has a reputation worldwide for going out, engaging, lobbying and bringing foreign direct investment to this country. We have been through tough times before. I was a Member of the other House between 2011 and 2020. In the first few years, we dealt with difficult budgets. We had votes on making cuts. It is great to listen to the Minister and others talking about all the money we are projecting to spend but we have to remember where we came from and the decisions that allow us to be here. I also acknowledge we do not know what the future holds. We make projections.”
“I welcome the Minister of State and thank her for coming in to engage with us on the public expenditure side of the budget. Before I talk about some of the issues, I would like to put on record that the total spend is €109.3 billion. The projected source of that money for next year include: income tax, €38.8 billion; corporation tax, €34.06 billion; VAT, €23.6 billion; excise duties, €6.7 billion; stamp duties, €2 billion; capital gains taxes, €2.1 billion; and other taxes of €2.4 billion. That includes motor tax of €800 million, capital acquisitions tax of €900 million and customs duties of €600 million. It is not by accident that those moneys are projected to be made available.”
“The initiative previously applied only to properties built pre-1915. That has now changed to properties built pre-1975. That will increase hugely the scope of eligible properties to benefit. That is an important initiative. The scheme has been extended to the end of December 2030, which will ensure greater flexibility is afforded to those claiming the relief. It is to be hoped the derelict property tax, also being collected by Revenue Commissioners, will act as an incentive, or a stick, as it were, to force development of derelict properties. We see them up and down the country and there have been initiatives like the croí cónaithe scheme. This is the carrot, but we need to ensure the stick is also used. With that, I commend the initiative on the part of the Department of Finance.”
“Sometimes, when a change is made one year, people forget that that continues. The extension is a real cut for our consumers up and down the country. I welcome as well the VAT cut for new apartments. This is about stimulating construction. It is not about rewarding anybody. It is about looking at those apartments where planning permission has been granted and how to encourage those developers to build the apartments we need up and down the country, whether for private sale or for rent. We need more homes and we need to increase the supply of homes. This is an initiative not to reward anyone or any sector but to try to encourage building of apartments, which is high cost. I welcome that. In relation to the living city initiative, I welcome the changes made. Five towns around the country have been included.”
“I welcome the initiatives taken by the Minister and the Government today in relation to the rate of credit increasing from 30% to 35% and increasing the first-year payment thresholds from €75,000 to €85,500 to support smaller research and development projects. Some other changes have taken place. I welcome the changes to the USC such that those who benefit from the increase in the minimum wage will not be caught in relation to the USC. I also welcome the renter's tax credit being extended for a further three years, to 31 December 2028. Again, that is hugely important, as is the mortgage interest tax relief being extended for a further two years. As regards gas and electricity, again, we have reduced the VAT rate. That was due to expire on 1 November of this year. It has now been extended to 2030. That is a benefit.”
“You cannot have businesses without employees and you cannot have employees without businesses. It is important to reflect that as well, so I welcome that initiative. Research and development is so important for continued investment in this country. We know that the IDA and Enterprise Ireland do tremendous work in selling Ireland, supporting businesses and start-ups and growing jobs. We have all been to jobs announcements across our country, thankfully. They are so important for those communities and as a driver of the tax take to the country. Research and development is hugely important. It is a key driver of economic growth and high-value employment.”
“The Minister of State is very welcome to the Chamber. Over recent years, particularly since 2011, on and off, we have had debates about VAT. The VAT change for our hospitality sector that took place back in the dark days of 2011 was used as a stimulus for that sector. When the then Government tried to find measures to stimulate the economy and to boost job creation, it looked to that to boost jobs, and it worked. I certainly do not see it as being elitist to protect jobs in every town, village and region of our country. Over 99% of the businesses that will benefit from the reduction in the VAT rate are small businesses. That is important. It also supports about 190,000 jobs. The increase in the minimum wage is, of course, an added cost to businesses.”
“This will provide that stability and comfort to artists to allow them to do their creative work knowing they have a steady income for a time. We will wait for the final details of that announcement from the Minister and I am sure he will be bringing provisions to the Cabinet in due course.”
“Perhaps she should put one down to get a direct response from the Minister or the Department. Whether the Minister herself comes in or not, somebody will come in on behalf of that Department to give guidance on whether there are any plans in relation to the provisions of pensions, etc. Senator Maria Byrne raised the Bluebird Care carer of the year awards. I acknowledge Paula O'Keeffe and her caring work. Carers up and down the country have a very important role. The Senator also mentioned the basic income for the arts scheme. It has been a huge success and it is important to give that comfort and stability to our 2,000 artists throughout the country. I do not know the ins and outs of whether it will be expanded, but it is certainly being put on a permanent basis.”
“The Senator also mentioned the Fianna Fáil presidential campaign, which I will not comment on. On a more serious note, the Senator also spoke about the survivors of industrial schools and day 17 of their protest. I am not sure if the Senator has already put down a Commencement matter on this issue.”
“The Senator's colleagues on the transport committee can also raise this matter when bringing in representatives of the NTA. If I get an opportunity, I will also certainly raise it. Senator Costello commended those involved in the BreastCancerKnowMore group of six brave survivors, including one male. It is a real concern in so many families up and down the country and I commend those survivors on increasing awareness of and advocacy in breast cancer. Senator Sarah O'Reilly raised a concern regarding the choice in the presidential campaign. I am afraid I cannot do anything about that at this stage. The future is another time and we will not feel seven years coming around when it comes to whether changes could be proposed in this regard by the Opposition or the Government or whatever.”
“I will bring this matter up with the Minister, Deputy Carroll MacNeill, in relation to, most importantly, any new hospitals or hospital renovations including this aspect in their design. Senator Curley raised the issue of STEM Racing, as he called it, and the success of the Increvex team from St Brigid's College in Loughrea. Four young women have won an award in relation to STEM Racing, which involves building miniature racing cars. I congratulate them and wish them well. Senator Tully raised the matter of the 109X bus from Cavan to Dublin via Kells and people being left stranded. Obviously, direct responsibility lies with the NTA and I know the Senator has been engaging with the authority. The Senator can put down a Commencement matter in this regard. It will remain to be seen whether the Minister will come in.”
“Senator Scahill mentioned Storm Amy and that there were again power outages and people impacted. He has called for a debate on this issue. He is right in terms of the availability of news and updates on when power will be restored and the need for people to write in MPRN and mobile phone numbers on apps. The digital divide was again mentioned and the difficulties this causes. I will request a debate on this matter too. Senator Collins raised an important issue in relation to miscarriages and the need for sensitivity around those who suffer from miscarriages, who have the trauma of losing a child, depending on the age, and are in maternity hospitals at the time. I can imagine it is a difficult issue for the women and their partners in those cases.”
“I will certainly request it, but of course neither I nor this House can compel Ministers to come in. The other House can do so, but I will certainly request that there be more sectoral debates on certain issues. Disability and the Disability Federation of Ireland were mentioned by both Senators as well. I will request and try to finalise an appropriate date with the Minister of State, Deputy Naughton. I will ask her to come in and engage on the disability strategy and the budget at the same time, if that is possible. Senator Flaherty raised the issue of additional supports on housing and the benefits that will accrue to County Longford in relation to additional social housing. He also mentioned the community centre fund and the needs in Lanesborough in County Longford.”