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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“That decision predates the present CEO, however, who has indicated that, on a population basis in particular, it reflects just the population of the city rather than the population it caters for on a daily basis, which includes some of the county and the region. That is the main issue that needs to be taken into account. I am not trying to take from any other local authority. Rather, I seek to ensure Galway city gets what it deserves in the context of what it does for the area and region.”
“Níl sé seo ceart do phríomhchathair an iarthair a bhfuil daonra de 90,000 aici, chomh maith le 30,000 mac léinn sa bhreis ag freastal ar an dhá ollscoil gach lá. Freisin, tá ceithre ospidéal sa chathair a fhreastalaíonn ar an gcathair, contae agus réigiún. Mar sin, tá a lán daoine ag úsáid seirbhísí sa chathair chuile lá. Galway is the regional capital and it is not being funded as such. Its services cater not only for the environs of a relatively small, designated city but also for the greater region, both in the county and throughout Connacht. That needs to be reflected in the baseline funding it receives. Changes were made and agreed to a number of years ago and I appreciate that.”
“We need transport infrastructure of all types to relieve the traffic gridlock experienced daily. We need public and private housing and the services that surround those provisions. We need all the other services involved in building sustainable communities, such as playgrounds, community centres, sports facilities, walking and cycling routes and everything that is needed to create a sustainable living city, yet we are funded at the lowest level. Teastaíonn tuilleadh maoinithe do Chomhairle Cathrach na Gaillimhe. Tá an struchtúr atá leagtha amach ag an Roinn tithíochta agus rialtais áitiúil, ina bhfuil an comhairle cathrach i sraith 5, mífhéaráilte. Iarraim ar an Roinn Comhairle Cathrach na Gaillimhe a athrú go sraith 4. Tá an comhairle cathrach sa ghrúpa céanna le comhairlí beaga faoin tuath.”
“It could be argued that there is a daily population of approximately 130,000 when workers coming into the city from the outskirts are taken into account as well. Galway is a regional capital. It provides all the services of a regional capital to its hinterland of more than half a million citizens. Its four hospitals cater for thousands of patients weekly and its colleges educate each successive generation, yet it is funded as if it is the smallest of local authorities. Galway is a world hub for the medical device industry, with thousands of jobs and cutting-edge innovation. It is a tech hub with amazing new start-ups and spin-outs from our universities, but it is funded with no recognition of the achievements and needs this involves. There is a huge need for investment in Galway city.”
“We have had meetings and regular briefings with the management team of Galway City Council and with this year’s mayor, Councillor Mike Cubbard, as well as with the previous mayor, Councillor Peter Keane, where we met the manager. We have a new CEO, Mr. Leonard Cleary, who has come in since the baseline funding was decided by the Government a number of years ago. Galway city is short-changed by being ranked as a tier 5 authority for funding. By being ranked alongside the smaller rural counties with a low population, Galway city is denied the funding it requires and deserves as a regional capital. Galway city’s population stands at 90,000 in 2025. That is not the full picture, however. During the autumn, winter and spring, some 30,000 students attend its two universities and in summer, it welcomes some two million tourists.”
“Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire Stáit, an Teachta Cummins. The Minister of State is welcome. First, I thank the Cathaoirleach’s office for choosing this Commencement matter. I thank the Minister of State, Deputy Cummins, for coming in. It is good to see the Minister of State with responsibility for the topic present. I am raising this Commencement matter regarding funding for Galway City Council. In doing so, I am conscious of the continuous efforts being made by my colleagues on Galway City Council, including Councillors Frank Fahy, Eddie Hoare, Clodagh Higgins and Shane Forde, three of whom are former mayors of the city.”
“For too long it was not talked about or acknowledged and mental health services were under-resourced. I am aware that the Minister of State has done a lot of work in this area and she is to be commended on that. The Bill is an important step in dealing with a very small but very vulnerable group of people. I welcome it as a step forward and wish the Minister of State well as it progresses.”
“I will touch on some of it later. The Minister of State will be aware of a group called Justice for Adam, which is concerned about the referral of mental illness sufferers to accident and emergency departments. The thinking is that there should be a separate door or process for those who suffer from mental health issues who go to an emergency department and are left there waiting. I understand there is such infrastructure in the NHS. I am not sure if it is possible here, but it makes sense. You could argue the same for a lot of other illnesses. I have made the point that, in Galway, cancer patients have to go through the ED also. We are working on that. It is a slow process, but I think there is a case to be made. Mental health has been the poor relation in some regards for long enough. To an extent, that reflects badly on us all.”
“I am concerned that anyone who can make a decision to refuse treatment for any condition could be compelled to accept it. The college also makes the point that there should be patient recoverer decision-making capacity while in treatment. This would allows any court proceedings to be discontinued if consent is given to treatment. That is a reasonable position. I would appreciate some clarity on it. I have received a submission from Recovery Experts by Experience, REE. I am sure the Minister of State is familiar with those concerned. I will touch on some of the matters again on Committee Stage, perhaps. REE has expressed concerns over human rights issues, a regression of rights, and a lack of compliance with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. I am sure the Minister of State is aware of the submission.”
“The vast majority of mental health conditions are treated at primary care level by GPs across the country, with referrals to mental health professionals in some areas. However, for a minority, this Bill is a part of the solution. I am aware that concerns have been expressed about the legal nature of some of the provisions in the Bill, but I feel that, on balance, the rights of those with severe mental illnesses who are unable to give consent should receive the highest protection and consideration, if required. The court system gives that. It is not a reflection on anybody; it is a protection for all involved, including the patient. The College of Psychiatrists of Ireland is concerned that someone with decision-making capacity who refuses treatment can be the subject of High Court proceedings to compel them to accept treatment.”
“I am sure the Minister of State has been made aware of those. We welcome the guiding principles for children that are to be adhered to in any decision to admit a child to a mental health facility. Serious childhood illness of any nature is particularly upsetting and hugely worrying, so a set of strong, clear rights-based principles is certainly necessary and vital to support both the child and their guardians during an episode of severe mental illness. The legislation is welcome at a time when there has been no greater awareness of mental health. People are more comfortable discussing their mental health concerns. This legislation provides the rules and principles that must be adhered to regarding those in our community with the most severe episodes of mental illness.”
“The Minister of State is welcome. I join others in commending her on her stewardship of this Bill, on her work over the years and that of her officials and, of course, the committee, whose members have done Trojan work in their scrutiny of the proposals here. This is a very necessary Bill but it is very complex; I appreciate that. It is complex but crucial legislation that seeks to strengthen the protection given to those who are experiencing severe mental illness and who require admission to a health facility on an involuntary basis. While the intent of the Bill is to be welcomed, I note the comment by the College of Psychiatrists of Ireland that while it believes the Bill represents some positive movement towards more workable person-centred legislation, it has some concerns, which will come to later.”
“I move: That Seanad Éireann, noting that the Government agreed on 10th September, 2025 to propose, for the approval of Seanad Éireann, the appointment or reappointment, as the case may be, of the persons concerned to be members of the Legal Services Regulatory Authority, and pursuant to sections 9 and 10 of the Legal Services Regulation Act, 2015, approves the appointment of Simon Barry and William Abrahamson with effect from 1st October, 2025, by the Government to be members of the Legal Services Regulatory Authority in accordance with that Act, and the reappointment of Shane Galligan, with effect from 1st October, 2025, by the Government to be a member of the Legal Services Regulatory Authority in accordance with that Act, such appointment or reappointment being for a period not exceeding four years from the date of appointment or reappointment, as the case may be, as the Government may determine.”
“They will advocate for themselves in the coming weeks and the Irish people will decide. The processes are laid down in the 1937 Constitution, as I said yesterday, which was voted on by the people. People are free to make up their own minds about who they choose they nominate. A lot of pressure was brought to bear on certain individuals. At least that pressure now ends as the nomination process has now closed. I wish all three candidates the best of luck over the coming weeks. I hope it will be a respectful debate online and in the physical debate that will take place.”
“Senator Craughwell spoke about international evidence on the RSV vaccines. He made a fair point. That is why we are in the European Union and there is commonality across that. I will raise it with the Minister for Health. Senator Sarah O'Reilly mentioned Maria Steen missing out by two votes on a nomination to be a presidential candidate. She mentioned dignity and truth. I would like to think all candidates who are selected have dignity and truth.”
“Many Members are the subject of online misinformation or abuse, so I will raise that with the Minister as well to see what can be done. Senator Keogan raised the tragic disappearance and death of Daniel Aruebose whose remains were found in Donabate. She called for a debate on Tusla regarding child disappearance. I will request that from the Minister, Deputy Foley. Senator Tully spoke about the issue of a young child getting access to accessible taxis. They turn up and are not able to take a child. I have requested statements with the Minister of State, Deputy Naughton, on the disability strategy, which was launched a number of weeks ago. It is an all-of-government approach. It is not only in her Department. Transport issues fall under the Department of Transport. I will certainly request a debate with her on that matter.”
“We are a long way off that, but I will certainly continue to raise that with the relevant Ministers. Senator Collins raised the matter of the flooding in Dromcolliher. I ask her to table a Commencement matter on that with the Minister of State, Deputy Moran. I will also see whether, under the capital plan, there will be an opportunity for him to come in to discuss his plans under the NDP review. Senator Scahill and Senator Craughwell raised the matter of social media spreading misinformation affecting present and future elections and called for a debate. Senator Craughwell suggested that the Cathaoirleach could take this up. I am not sure what work the committee has done on this matter lately. It comes up here quite often.”
“If the weather holds up at all, it is a pleasant day or three days out. The Senator called for a debate on the tillage sector. The Minister, Deputy Heydon, will be here next week for a Fine Gael Private Member's Bill on agriculture so there will be an opportunity to raise the matter then. I will certainly discuss it with him in the meantime as well. Senator McDowell raised the issue of the cost of asylum seekers. The Government is looking at pursuing State delivery of services, but a figure floated by the previous Minister as well was that up to 70%, 80% or now approaching 90% of asylum seekers are coming through the UK. As we head towards the next general election in the UK, if Reform UK gets in, I can see that number increasing as people avoid that possible change of Government.”
“It has become a habit for a Minister or Minister of State who is on front-line duty to be given four or five scripts to read out in some cases. It is not best practice. I have asked that, certainly where Departments have two or three Ministers of State, that they provide one to answer questions. I do not have an answer, except that I will keep raising the issue. It happens in both Houses. It is not just in this House. That does not make it right. Senator Ruane also questioned comments by the Minister of State, Deputy Troy, regarding the housing list. I hope we will have statements on housing at some stage in the future. She can raise the matter then. Senator Paul Daly complimented Anna May McHugh and all involved in the National Ploughing Championships. They were a great success, as they generally are.”
“I acknowledge that our colleague, Senator Andrews, is on that flotilla. There will be a debate on Gaza tomorrow in Fianna Fáil Private Members' time and it will be an opportunity to discuss this further. The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade is in New York so I presume the Minister of State, Deputy Thomas Byrne, will address us tomorrow on that. I will certainly raise the matter with the Tánaiste when I see him when he is back from New York. Senator McCormack also called for a debate on the cost of living and energy. I will request that. I am not sure it will be possible in advance of the budget but I will certainly request it. Senators Ruane and Craughwell also raised the subject of Commencement matters. I agree there are issues. I have raised them in my party room.”
“I feel strongly about this and I will request a debate with the Minister on this matter. Senator Maria Byrne raised the matter of a young girl with Crohn's disease who is looking to get her eggs frozen. That is not something I had thought about before. Perhaps the Senator could raise this is a Commencement matter. That might result in a more direct response. I will certainly raise the matter with the Minister, Deputy Carroll MacNeill, as well. Senators Boyhan and Stephenson raised the matter of the protest by survivors of residential care. Senator Boyhan has been a strong advocate of survivors of residential care during my time in these Houses. I will certainly raise that again with Ministers and the Tánaiste. Senators McCormack, Stephenson and Ruane raised the issue of the flotilla that was attacked off Crete.”
“I thank all Senators for their contributions here this morning. We started with Senator Anne Rabbitte, who rightly raised the issue of misinformation regarding autism, paracetamol and vaccinations. It is deplorable. I am not qualified to say what vaccines or drugs anyone should take for any illness. That is why we have the Irish medical agency, the European Medicines Agency and the Food and Drug Administration in the United States. They are the ones that provide expert advice to our GPs and other medical professionals across the country. They are the ones that should be listened to and give advice in relation to this. I acknowledge the hurt this misinformation has caused and the concerns of expectant mothers and those who have children with autism who feel their lives have been questioned.”
“and to conclude at 2.45 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 and all other Senators not to exceed four minutes, time may be shared, and the Minister will be given not less than ten minutes to reply to the debate; and No. 3, Mental Health Bill 2024 - Second Stage, to be taken at 4 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 15 minutes, group spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes and 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, too, welcome the ambassador and wish her well on her country's celebrations. I know Malta's national day was on Sunday. I am sure the celebrations are still going on. I had the pleasure of visiting Malta some years ago. It is a beautiful country and the ambassador is welcome here this morning. The Order of Business is No. 1, motion re the proposed approval by Seanad Éireann of appointments of members of the Legal Services Regulatory Authority, to be taken on conclusion of the Order of Business, without debate; No. 2, statements on public expenditure, infrastructure, public service reform and digitalisation, to be taken at 12.45 p.m.”
“It is not an easy topic even where the plan is to change to State-owned, but it is the right approach to have dedicated centres rather than the present system that has operated over the last two years. I would agree with the need for rules. Rules are important, and we must have a firm but fair system whereby people are processed quickly and where the rule of law is accepted and people who do not qualify and who fail in their application follow the rigours of deportation and the law.”
“We have seen that in different parts of my constituency. Both of those situations have caused trouble, and I will be blunt about it, particularly if there were plans to accommodate 70 single men in a rural community. There was, understandably, uproar in relation to that. Therefore, the change to State-owned centres is right. Of course, that depends where the State-owned centres are going to be. There is no easy answer for those. The State has bought Citywest. I know there is opposition there locally. Wherever the State chooses to locate these centres, I am sure there will be opposition. That is understandable because we have seen it in certain parts of the country where there are issues. This is not an easy topic.”
“With regard to the policy for the last number of years and having had direct experience of this in my own constituency, the processes were in place heretofore and possibly are still here to a degree with regard to having private operators and having rumours out there in relation to what might happen and who might come. For example, in 2019, my experience was that there was no information about whether a premises was going to be used, who was coming, in what numbers and where they were from. That has changed to a degree latterly over the last number of years whereby the then Department of integration would have provided information on the numbers that were coming. For example, it would inform a local community that agreement was reached to accommodate 70, as it were, single men or 70 or 80 women.”
“The importance of migrants to our economy and to our healthcare system, in particular, and other sectors has been stated here, and that is absolutely right. Anybody who has been in an emergency department, community settings or nursing homes knows the importance of migrant workers who are part of our society and who have been working and looking after our loved ones and our elderly, and the Minister of State rightly mentioned that in his contribution. When one is out canvassing at doors, and I come across this so often, one meets a Filipino or somebody who is a carer for a loved one in that house and is a valued part of that household in terms of what he or she does.”
“The Minister of State is very welcome. I thank him for coming in to debate the matter of migration. I acknowledge his work and that of the Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan, in the Department over the last period since this area has come back to the Department of justice. First of all, I want to join with the Minister of State in condemning racist attacks and the attacks that took place over the summer on young Indian children. That is deplorable, and it needs to be rightly condemned. I acknowledge the work of the Minister of State and others in meeting Indian representatives here in this country to express our condemnation of those attacks and intimidation and to show that is wrong and should not be tolerated in this country.”
“I move: That, notwithstanding anything in the Standing Orders relative to Public Business, up to six Commencement matters may be selected by the Cathaoirleach for discussion on each day the Seanad sits from 25th September, 2025 and up to and including 2nd October, 2025.”
“I do not think she is available next week but hopefully we will be able to get her to come to the House in the couple of weeks after that to discuss the strategy and the whole-of-government approach to disability.”
“We are, however, third in Europe for education quality and access. This is based on the PISA test scores involving research, literacy, digital skills and government investment. We can always try and get to first. With greater investment and everything else we could do that, but third is a very good result. We need to continue the investment for our children in that regard. Senator Martin Conway raised the disability strategy as launched by the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste and the Minister of State, Hildegarde Naughton, a number of weeks ago. He requested a debate on this matter. I have requested that the Minister of State, Deputy Naughton, come in to discuss this issue over the coming weeks.”
“If she wishes to table a Commencement matter on it, she may get a more specific response from the Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan. Senators Joe Conway and Martin Conway raised the issue of the Moldovan elections. I am not too familiar with it. However, I hope for the best outcome for the people of Moldova, whatever they decide, and that the elections are free and fair. As happens in many parts of the world, the elections will be monitored to ensure that they are free and fair. Senator Sarah O'Reilly raised the concerns of parents, teachers and pupils in Cavan in relation to class sizes and education. I acknowledge the campaign that took place over the summer. Many of us had opportunities prior to the recess to meet with the INTO to discuss the need for ongoing investment in schools and we will certainly do that.”
“Whether there is a need for reform of that or not, I do not know, but it would be subject to legislative change. Private Members' motions or whatever can be pursued through these Houses and the Government would make a decision on that. I know councillors had difficult decisions to make. I agree that perhaps there are issues with candidates not being able to get to all local authorities, which certainly does not help the process. Maybe things could be sorted out earlier or in some other way. However, councillors made decisions on whether to nominate or not and that is the process as laid down. Senator Collins called for a review of the current framework for legal aid. I will certainly request a debate on that matter.”
“The Senator also raised the issue of single adult homelessness and the shorter life expectancy of homeless persons. Indeed, a report was published today on the causes of premature death in men, which include factors such as suicide, cancer and cardiac issues. I will raise this issue with the Minister for housing. Senator Murphy O'Mahony paid a moving tribute to her colleague, Councillor Patrick Gerard Murphy. I join in her expression of sympathy to his brothers Mike and Noel and all of his family, as well as to those who worked with him and loved him. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis. Senator Keogan expressed concern regarding the presidential election nominating process which, of course, is laid down in the Constitution as agreed by the people in 1937.”
“It is an equaliser or leveller across the system, whereby all children are able to avail of hot school meals. Senator Tully raised issues of child safeguarding and highlighted the tragic passing of Daniel Aruebose in Donabate, Harvey Morrison Sherrat and Kyran Durnin. She spoke about the disappearance of children and of how the State is unaware of these things happening. I will request a debate on these tragic disappearances with the Minister, Deputy Foley. Senator Harmon raised the issue of student fees. She may be privy to more information than I am - I do not know - but I am not aware of any budget proposals that have been agreed. We had a debate on this matter in recent months and will wait to see what budget proposals will come out in a fortnight.”
“We are a long time waiting for rural housing guidelines so I will certainly request a debate on that matter. Senator Comyn wished Kate O'Connor every success and I join her in that. She also made a passionate plea regarding unregulated activities on social media. That is a bugbear of so many people in here. You just never know when you will be the victim of a social media attack. There is certainly a need for stronger regulation and I will request a debate on the matter. Senator Scahill raised the issues of school meals and school transport. We hope to have a debate on school transport next week. I am aware that certain issues arose at the start of this term in relation to school meals. I hope these can be ironed out because the scheme has been a huge success and is so necessary for those who do not have the benefit of a hot meal at home.”
“Senator Curley raised the issue of the need to provide funding for Carrabane National School. I suggest that if he submits a Commencement matter, he might get a more adequate response. The Senator raised a litany of concerns in relation to Carrabane, including the long wait for a new school, the lack of car parking, sewerage and electrical issues, floor and ceiling issues and so on. The lapsed planning permission has been renewed and one certainly hopes that funding can be provided. Senator Brady wished Longford's Cian McPhillips the best of luck. He was unlucky not to have taken a bronze medal in the recent World Athletics Championships and the Senator wished him well. Senator Boyhan has requested a debate on rural housing. I will request a debate on that specific matter.”
“These are all welcome initiatives as part of the legacy agreement and I look forward to legislation progressing on that and to the work of the foreign affairs committee in relation to same. Senator Murphy also mentioned the Cearta protest, those who attended and the ongoing campaign in relation to Irish rights. Senator Noonan raised the issue of the fish kills in the Blackwater and other rivers over the summer and has requested a debate on water quality. There is now a Cabinet committee on water quality as part of the campaign to support the nitrates derogation. I will request a debate on this matter with the Minister for the environment. Senator Noonan also mentioned the corporate sustainability due diligence directive. I am sure the MEPs are aware of the issues there but I will certainly raise it with my colleagues.”
“The Senator also raised the issue of the post-2013 pensions and, again, I will raise that with the Minister. Senator Conor Murphy raised the issue of the legacy agreement and the necessary publication of legislation to back this up. I acknowledge the joint framework, which we are told will bring about root-and-branch reform of the UK's legacy Act, which was very controversial, and the commission it established. Among the elements of reform are the lifting of the prohibition on civil cases, the restoration of inquests halted by the legacy Act, ensuring that the legacy commission can carry out investigations to UK-wide standards capable of leading to prosecution, and the establishment of a new judge-led inquisitorial mechanism with public hearings and effective next-of-kin participation.”
“Senator Boyle spoke of Irish Water and the need for additional investment in Donegal in the context of concerns in various locations regarding water pipes over the summer and the need for investment in reservoirs. Irish Water has had a lot of legacy issues and when the announcements are made for each Department in the capital plan, we hope to see additional investment in Irish Water to allow it to continue to invest in both water and wastewater infrastructure. Senator Craughwell again raised the issue of Bristow search and rescue and mentioned that it is coming before the public accounts committee. He talked about the breaches of employment laws. I will request again that this matter be raised with the Minister but if the Senator submits a Commencement matter on this issue, he may get a more adequate response.”
“I thank all Senators for their contributions this morning, starting with Senator Fitzpatrick, who spoke of the Taoiseach’s remarks to the UN General Assembly on world conflicts, in particular in Gaza, and of the need for recognition of the Palestinian state, as well as the recognition of the Palestinian state by a number of countries over the course of the weekend. We welcome that. The Senator also discussed issues relating to energy prices and requested that the Minister come in to discuss those in advance of the budget. She was joined by Senator Craughwell in talking about the protocols and treatments of the Tricolour. I agree the Tricolour is a flag of unity of the island and should not be used to stoke division.”
“and to conclude at 6 p.m., if not previously concluded, with the time allocated to opening remarks from 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 ten minutes to reply to the debate.”
“Before I read out the Order of Business, I welcome Martin to his post and wish him every success over the coming years. I pay tribute to Bridget and the other Martin for their sterling work and support over the past number of years. They were both the height of professionalism in their duties. The Order of Business is No. 1, motion re arrangements for the sitting of the Seanad until 2 October 2025, to be taken at the conclusion of the Order of Business without debate; and No. 2, statements on migration, to be taken at 4.30 p.m.”
“As I said, all those people and groups are vital cogs in that wheel to keep things turning and moving. I thank them and I thank everyone for the courtesy shown to me over the last number of months. I hope they enjoy the summer.”
“It is not so much resources or the funding, which may have been an issue a number of years ago, but actually getting people physically to do the work of carers. As the population gets older, it is an issue of which we need to be acutely aware. We need to continue to invest, improvise and see how we can do those things better. The Senator is right that there is a commitment in the programme for Government to an ending of the means test for carers and a move towards a statutory home care scheme as well. Finally, I join with others in thanking all the staff in the Seanad Office. I extend thanks to Bridget Doody, Martin Groves, the ushers, the cleaners, the caterers and all who make these Houses function and assist in democracy in this great country. Long may it continue.”
“Senator Andrews spoke about the Dublin task force. I would hope that a Dublin task force is a positive thing. As I understand it, the task force at Cabinet level is being chaired by the Taoiseach. He will be in the Chamber in October and Senators will have an opportunity to raise these things. Obviously, having a focus on a particular area is right and proper. Dublin is a big city. If, within that task force, there is a focus on particular areas such as Pearse Street, that would be a positive and investment would be needed in that regard. Senator Joe O'Reilly has raised the issue of carers and our elderly and, in some cases, those who are not so elderly who require support and care. The population is getting older. There are challenges as things stand today in terms of sufficient staffing.”
“Deputy Colm Burke has consistently raised the need for additional places in our dental colleges and I know Senators Scahill and Boyle have raised the issue of dental hygienists. We raised it here because we believe it is an important issue and it is not getting adequate attention and investment. We are storing up trouble unless more is done regarding dentists and the reform of the dental Act. The Dentists Act goes back to 1985. It needs modernisation. There is also the work of the Dental Council and what happens when a dentist is suspended. If the practice closes overnight and someone leaves the country, what happens to the clients? There are insurance issues. There is a lot in that whole area that needs investment and attention and I will certainly raise that again with the Minister for Health.”
“He is right in terms of rewriting history. I remember when the late Pope Francis visited Ireland and was with the then Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, in Dublin Castle. As he said quite rightly, the churches were the Department of Health and the Department of Social Protection before they were actually established in this State. Religious institutions played an important role. We are where we are now, however, and legislation has been passed. We have to ensure those remains are given a dignified burial. There was debate at the time and there probably still is debate locally on that matter. Senator Nelson Murray raised the issue of dental services. We had a comprehensive debate on the matter in Private Members' business recently.”
“It is a positive for Bus Éireann because it enables it to get the best routes to be able to weave their way around rural Galway and rural areas elsewhere and to ensure the best services are provided. Senator Keoghan raised the 10,852 abortions and that one in six pregnancies have ended in termination. I draw her attention to my comprehensive response to Senator Mullen this week or last week on this very important issue. Senator Ní Chuilinn again raised the issue of the broadcasting workers. Senator Mullen raised the dig in Tuam. As he knows, the Institutional Burials Act 2022 was debated and passed in these Houses. I am sure he participated in those debates at the time and put his issues on the record. There was always divided opinion, even locally in Tuam, on the best approach. That decision has been made now.”