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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“She accepted that they cost money and they do not make a profit, but they are part of the investment programme of the State and local authorities. Senator Scahill is a big proponent of swimming and he is involved in the Ballaghadereen outdoor swimming pool. There will be statements on sport next week with the Minister of State, Deputy McConalogue, so the Senators may be able to raise the issue with him at that time. Senator Ahearn spoke in support of the Irish Foster Care Association and the invaluable work foster carers do for foster children. He spoke about the need for greater recognition and the inclusion of foster carers as part of caring and the calculation of the State pension. I will raise that with the Minister for Finance, Deputy Donohoe, as well.”
“I am sure she and others will lobby for the inclusion of Ardee, or at least that the heading for the Department of Transport would allow for capital expenditure in Ardee, subject to planning permission and agreements in that regard. The Senator also welcomed the developments in regard to the Louth GAA stadium. Senator Duffy raised road safety and road fatalities in Mayo. He mentioned the need for continued investment on the N17 and the N5. I ask him to engage with colleagues on the transport committee on the matter. From time to time we have statements on road safety, which we had earlier in the year. The Senator also raised forestry in Ballycastle, which he has done previously. Senator Collins raised the need for continued investment in public swimming pools in Limerick, and I am sure elsewhere as well.”
“USAID raised critical concerns regarding the ability of key aid groups to protect Palestinians and to deliver food to them. This is a very serious issue. We see Palestinians being targeted as they queue for food. This is part of the unacceptable atrocities that are going on in that part of the world. Senator McDowell raised the matter yesterday. I will try to bring a motion on Gaza to the House before the recess on which we will seek to get cross-party agreement. Senator Comyn raised the topic of the Slane bypass in County Meath, which we welcome. She is shocked that Ardee is not included in the national development plan. I am not sure if she is taking about the previous plan or the forthcoming one, because there is still an opportunity for it to be included in the next one.”
“I understand it was the tenth anniversary broadcast and was given by the bishop of the Kildare area. Senator Gareth Scahill spoke about the commemoration of the abolition of corporal punishment by former Minister John Boland. His daughter Grace Boland, now a Deputy, attended a commemoration in Roscommon, and I acknowledge that. As Senator Scahill rightly said, it was an unpopular decision at the time, perhaps not with the children but with others. However, it has been seen to be the right thing to do. John Boland was ahead of his time in that regard. Senator Joe Conway spoke about religious Zionism and the relief work in Gaza. We had the defunding or abolition of USAID by the Trump Administration. I am not sure if it has gone through yet, technically.”
“The first of those children arrived in May. I will again raise the matter with the Department of justice to see what the delays are. Senator Paul Daly raised the issue of farm safety week, which is outside of our traditional sitting period. I will include a debate on farm safety in the autumn. Others decide when farm safety week is. I do not know whether it is the best week. Perhaps it should be earlier in the year during calving season, the start of silage making season or whatever. The date has been chosen. I acknowledge it. I was in my mother's home on Sunday and saw an annual remembrance service on RTÉ for those who lost their lives or were injured on farms, including the reading out of all of the names of the deceased on an all-island basis. It was a touching broadcast.”
“Following Senator Craughwell's comments on the war in Ukraine, recommendations to increase defence spending are partly linked to that war and the concerns regarding the Baltic countries' defence and security. There is general consensus that in this country we should increase military spending, a point I put to the Senator's colleague, Senator Boylan, at the defence committee last week. We should increase defence spending and look after the welfare of soldiers and the equipment they use. Other countries are more closely geographically located to the threat of Russia and those are the countries that wish to increase spending. Senator Stephenson, like Senator Andrews yesterday and Senator O'Loughlin on another occasion, referred to visas for children from Gaza. I understand the Government anticipates that 30 children will arrive.”
“I suspect if the size of each apartment in a larger development is reduced, developers would perhaps be able to increase the number of apartments. That may be where the cost savings are coming from, but he has raised concerns and it is hoped we will have an opportunity to discuss the matter. We are taking Second Stage of a housing Bill on Thursday. The Senator also welcomed the lobbying of Members of this House and organisations such as the AILG and LAMA on the changes to be announced today by the Minister, Deputy Browne, on security matters. Senator Andrews discussed the motion of no confidence in Commission President von der Leyen. That is a matter for MEPs. He linked the ongoing issues there to her views on militarisation of Europe.”
“He asked that the issue be raised with the Irish Wheelchair Association and the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland and I will certainly do that. Perhaps he might get colleagues on the disability committee to raise the matter as an agenda item when they engage in those matters. Senator Victor Boyhan welcomed the announcement by Government of an investigation into allegations of historical sexual abuse in schools. I understand the terms of reference will be brought before the Houses next week and we will arrange a debate on those matters. I am sure he will raise the need to include emotional and physical abuse as well as sexual abuse in that investigation. He also spoke about his concerns about the changes to the size of apartments in order to reduce costs.”
“I thank all Senators for their contributions. Senator O'Loughlin congratulated the Blaney family on 100 years of continuous service to the local authority in Donegal. I congratulate our colleague, Senator Niall Blaney, and hope the family had a good celebration and recognition of their work and service over the past 100 years. Senator O'Loughlin also raised the issue of Cuan and the important work done by refuges in outreach and accompanying people to court. She asked for a debate on the matter. I will try to arrange that. She also announced the LAMA awards for next February. There is plenty of time for groups and local authorities to prepare in that regard. Senator P. J. Murphy referred to the blue badge parking scheme and called for changes to the onerous yearly or biennial renewal of those badges.”
“and to conclude at 6.30 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 ten 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; and No. 4, statements on the post office network, to be taken at 6.30 p.m. and to conclude at 7.50 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 ten minutes, all other Senators not to exceed three 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, Defamation (Amendment) Bill 2024 - Second Stage, to be taken at 1 p.m. and to conclude at 3 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 ten 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; No. 2, Private Members' business, Pregnancy Loss (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2025 - Second Stage, to be taken at 3 p.m., with the time allocated to this debate not to exceed two hours; No. 3, Social Welfare (Bereaved Partner's Pension and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2025, changed from Social Welfare (Bereaved Partner's Pension) Bill 2025 - Second Stage, to be taken at 5 p.m.”
“I move: That the proposal that Seanad Éireann approves the following Regulations in draft: Planning and Development (Street Furniture Fees) Regulations 2025, a copy of which has been laid in draft form before Seanad Éireann on 4th July, 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 16th July, 2025, shall send a message to the Seanad in the manner prescribed in Standing Order 84, and Standing Order 86(2) shall accordingly apply.”
“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 Council Decision on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the Agreement between the European Union and Iceland on the transfer of Passenger Name Record (PNR) data for the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of terrorist offences and serious crime, a copy of which was laid before Seanad Éireann on 30th June, 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 Council Decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Agreement between the European Union and Iceland on the transfer of Passenger Name Record (PNR) data to prevent, detect, investigate and prosecute terrorist offences and serious crime, a copy of which was laid before Seanad Éireann on 30th June, 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 Council Decision on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the Agreement between the European Union and the Kingdom of Norway on the transfer of Passenger Name Record (PNR) data for the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of terrorist offences and serious crime, a copy of which was laid before Seanad Éireann on 30th June, 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 Council Decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Agreement between the European Union and the Kingdom of Norway on the transfer of Passenger Name Record (PNR) data to prevent, detect, investigate and prosecute terrorist offences and serious crime, a copy of which was laid before Seanad Éireann on 30th June, 2025.”
“I move: That Seanad Éireann, noting that the Government on 24th June, 2025 nominated Brian Doherty for appointment by the President as An Leas-Ombudsman Póilíneachta , recommends, pursuant to section 171(3)(b) of the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024 that Brian Doherty be appointed by the President as An Leas-Ombudsman Póilíneachta .”
“I will engage with the Tánaiste's office to see what motion might be possible and be acceptable to Members. Senator McCarthy raised the case of Ryan Cornelius in Dubai, who has been in prison for an extended period. I am not familiar with the background of the case. Perhaps he could raise it directly with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade or table a Commencement matter on it. Unfortunately, I am not fully au fait with the background to the case. Senator Mullen welcomed the announcement by the Cabinet of the establishment of a commission of investigation into allegations of historical sexual abuse in schools across the country, and the appointment of Mr. Justice Michael McGrath as chair of the commission. The terms of reference are due to be published and agreed. I wish the commission well in its work in the coming years.”
“He can raise the issue with the Minister of Health initially as the first port of call. Senator O'Reilly raised the issue of IPAS residents being forced into homeless emergency accommodation. I do not have an adequate answer on that. We have responsibilities to ensure people are housed, but it does not make a lot of sense if they are being moved from one service in a way that puts pressure on other services. I have asked the Minister for State at the Department of justice to come to the House to address issues of migration. I am not sure if we will have that debate before the recess, but it will certainly be as soon as possible because it is an important issue. Senator McDowell raised the matter of Gaza. Perhaps we can discuss that at the meeting of the leaders and Whips on Wednesday or Thursday, whenever that meeting is scheduled.”
“He called for supports for chambers of commerce in some of their endeavours. There are different funding schemes and sources that come out - some regularly, some less regularly - to support initiatives and community groups around the country. The work chambers do in supporting the work of our business community should be acknowledged. I will raise this with the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Deputy Burke. Senator Boyle acknowledged the tragic passing of Natalie and Ella McLaughlin. May they rest in peace. He also raised the matters of dementia and legal costs. The Senator can perhaps put down a Commencement matter on the topic. He might get a more direct response. It is one of those things that would be better answered by the Department of justice, but it is a health matter, so he may not get the best response.”
“Both Ministers of State may have a role, but the Minister of State for heritage would have a role initially. Any work that would be needed, if it was deemed to be appropriate, would be vested or charged to the Office of Public Works for carrying out. Senator Ryan called for a debate on the future of healthcare on the island. I will try to organise that. There is an amount of collaboration at the moment, whether it be between Letterkenny University Hospital and Altnagelvin Area Hospital or other facilities along the Border. It is an important issue. It makes sense to provide that co-operation between the health services on both sides of the Border, including the ambulance services. Senator O'Donovan mentioned the cost of business and competitiveness. He referenced the 9% VAT rate. That is a commitment in the programme for Government.”
“Bhí mé sna Tithe seo nuair a cuireadh deireadh leis an liúntas sin. Is ceist í don Aire Oideachais agus Óige, atá ag ullmhú don bhuiséad. Tá deis ag an Seanadóir an cheist seo a ardú mar Ní i dTosach Suí. Is ceist thábhachtach í. Ardóidh mé í leis an Aire, an Teachta McEntee. Is ceist fhíorthábhachtach í an difríocht sin idir múinteoirí sna scoileanna taobh amuigh den scéim aitheantais agus dóibh sna scoileanna laistigh di. Is ceist thábhachtach í. Senator P. J. Murphy raised the issue of the Kilmacduagh round tower. It is an iconic building on the outside of Gort town. There are concerns about its structural stability. He may submit a Commencement matter to the Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works or the Minister of State with responsibility for heritage, Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan.”
“The Minister, Deputy Browne, the Minister of State, Deputy Cummins, and the Department have been proposing and enacting a great deal of legislation and changes to try to boost housing supply, some of which we will see on Thursday and next week. Previous changes have been enacted by this House. In respect of the housing plans, there has been a body of positive work done over the last while. Senator Murphy O'Mahony raised the issue of safety on our roads for the All-Ireland final. It is two Munster teams. She has appealed for Irish Rail and coach providers to provide more services. I agree with that. It makes absolute sense that there would be additional services. I hope Iarnród Éireann and the private and public coach providers will respond to that. D'ardaigh an Seanadóir Ní Chuilinn ceist maidir leis an liúntas do mhúinteoirí Gaeilge.”
“It is a real issue. This would not be the only case where there would be suspicions. There have been cases where there were suggestions polling cards had been sold for a pint of Guinness or whatever else. A better system needs to be examined, where there is voter ID, the use of PPS numbers or something like that. As I said, the Electoral Commission is the body charged with that. Senator Boyhan raised the issue of the new housing plan and when it might be published. I will try to get an update on it. He also sought information on the PPP bundle in a development in Athy in County Kildare. Again, I will try to get information on the matter.”
“I certainly hope the plans for the GPO and the greater plans for Dublin city will be successful in terms of bringing life back to O'Connell Street and inner-city Dublin, getting people living there and bringing vibrancy and improved safety. These aspects are all part of the plans and I am sure they will be debated. I will request a debate with the Minister, Deputy O'Donovan, on this matter. Senator Kennelly raised a matter regarding voter personation and a court case, which I will not mention. Obviously, the Electoral Commission is the body now charged with the oversight of all electoral registers and the running of elections. I will raise this issue with the Minister, Deputy Browne, or the Minister of State, Deputy Cummins, in respect of the franchise section of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.”
“No decision has been made, but I am sure it will be examined, perhaps by the health committee too, of which the Senator is a member. This would be positive. Senator O'Loughlin also raised the issue of visas, as did Senator Andrews, in relation to Palestinians coming here. Perhaps the Senators could together submit a Commencement matter for debate on Thursday or next week and they might be able to get an answer on this matter. I will raise it with the Tánaiste in the meantime. Senators Conor Murphy and Fitzpatrick had differing views on the issue of GPO. I am not sure I will be able to sort out those differing views here today, but it is an iconic building.”
“Senator Byrne had a Commencement matter a couple of weeks ago concerning sunscreen as well. This matter has been debated before and there are issues with different rates of VAT. The Minister has stated it is not possible. Again, this is an issue that needs to be fully debated and explored in relation to what is possible and whether this issue needs to be led from Europe, because VAT is a competency of the European Union. I do not know. Regarding banning sunbeds, a body of work was done before and legislation was passed to ban sunbeds for those aged under 16. Is this being enforced? Anecdotally, we hear it is not. It should be because it is a health protection measure. The legislation was passed by the Oireachtas, so enforcement is needed. As the Senator said, the Taoiseach responded to the suggestion of a possible ban here too.”
“I certainly hope they will be able to deal adequately with this issue and that we will not see an award of the scale referred to. This matter must also go to the Cabinet for a decision. We will watch this space with interest because it is an important issue. Senator Craughwell raised the topic of the MV Matthew , commended the work done by the Army Rangers and all involved in that operation, and again highlighted issues regarding cybersecurity. This is an issue close to the Senator's heart but it is also an extremely important issue in relation to the HSE. There is a risk to our State from cybersecurity attacks. I join the Senator in commending all involved in the seizure of that ship. Senator O'Loughlin spoke about skin cancer and Senator Maria Byrne raised the linked issue of sunbeds.”
“I thank all of the Senators for their contributions, starting with Senator Linda Nelson Murray and her ongoing campaign regarding personal injury awards. Senators O'Donovan and O'Loughlin also commented on this matter. I fully agree regarding the importance of this issue. This matter will be discussed by the Cabinet subcommittee on insurance. Much work has been done over the past decade by successive Ministers concerning reform of the insurance industry. The benefits have been seen in reduced premiums and payouts. As the Senator highlighted, however, there are still comparisons to be made between this country and the UK. I certainly accept and acknowledge the Senator's work in relation to the importance of an SME test on this matter. I am sure this issue will be fully debated by all the Ministers and officials at the Cabinet subcommittee.”
“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 eight minutes, group spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes, all other Senators not to exceed three minutes and time may be shared, and the Minister to be given not less than seven minutes to reply to the debate; and No. 9, statements on the national drugs strategy, to be taken at 6 p.m. and to conclude at 7.30 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 ten minutes, all other Senators not to exceed four minutes and time may be shared, and the Minister to be given not less than eight minutes to reply to the debate.”
“6, motion regarding proposed approval by Seanad Éireann of a proposal for a Council decision on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of an agreement between the European Union and Iceland on the transfer of passenger name record data for the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of terrorist offences and serious crime, to be taken without debate on the conclusion of No. 5; No. 7, motion regarding the Planning and Development (Street Furniture Fees) Regulations 2025, referral to committee, to be taken without debate on the conclusion of No. 6; No. 8, motion regarding proposed approval by Seanad Éireann of regulations under section 60(4) of the Data Protection Act 2018, to be taken at 4.45 p.m.”
“4, motion regarding the proposed approval by Seanad Éireann of a proposal for a Council decision on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the agreement between the European Union and the Kingdom of Norway on the transfer of passenger name record data for the prevention, detection and investigation and prosecution of terrorist offences and serious crime, to be taken without debate on the conclusion of No. 3 without debate; No. 5, motion regarding proposed approval by Seanad Éireann of a proposal for a Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the agreement between the European Union and Iceland on the transfer of the passenger name record data to prevent, detect, investigate and prosecute terrorist offences and serious crime, to be taken without debate on the conclusion of No. 4; No.”
“The Order of Business is No.1, second report of the Committee on Parliamentary Privileges and Oversight and the adoption of a new Standing Order 111A, establishment of the Committee on EU Scrutiny and Transparency, to be taken without debate on the conclusion of the Order of Business; No. 2, motion regarding the appointment of An Leas-Ombudsman Póilíneachta, to be taken without debate on the conclusion of No. 1; No. 3, motion regarding the proposed approval by Seanad Éireann of a proposal for a Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the agreement between the European Union and the Kingdom of Norway on the transfer of passenger name record data to prevent, detect, investigate and prosecute terrorist offences and serious crime, to be taken without debate on the conclusion of No. 2; No.”
“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: Council Recommendation on a coordinated approach to the transition out of temporary protection for displaced persons from Ukraine, a copy of which was laid before Seanad Éireann on 26th June, 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: Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2024/1348 as regards the application of the ‘safe third country’ concept, a copy of which was laid before Seanad Éireann on 13th June, 2025.”
“There has been very little investment in the pier over the past 80 or 90 years. It is a strategic asset and it is important from a transport perspective as it serves Inishbofin. I ask the Minister of State to keep it on his radar. I hope that at a future date he can visit and have a look at what is there and be open to engaging with Galway County Council to progress the plans. I do not suggest things can be done quickly; I understand how these things work. However, I hope the Department will engage with the council to discuss improving facilities, such as lengthening the pier, lifting the slipway and other works in the vicinity of Cleggan. If these works took place, it would be a huge benefit to the community from a number of perspectives, including fishing, tourism and access to Inishbofin. I thank the Minister of State for coming in.”
“It relates to the timelines involved. I hope the Department will engage to ensure it is dealt with in good time. It is important that the existing investment by the State b protected and the project be completed. I also want to raise Cleggan pier. Some work was done in the late 2000s on options and plans for future development. Cleggan is the gateway to Inishbofin and a fishing harbour in its own right. It also has huge potential as a sheltered harbour between Killybegs and Ros an Mhíl on the west coast. There are asks there that will require investment. Some of them are small and could be done through funding applications by Galway County Council to the Department. Others are larger in scale and would require more substantial funding for Cleggan. The potential is there.”
“It will be difficult to change or alter that path because we cannot change history. All we can do is try to chart a new path forward that will assist coastal communities as well as the smaller guy. I think most of us want to try to fight for the smaller guy, their concerns and the over-regulation that they feel, in many cases justly, that they are subject to. I acknowledge the Minister of State's visits to Ros an Mhíl. I attended with him recently for a tour of the harbour and a tour of the new deepwater pier. I pay tribute to his predecessor Deputy Charlie McConalogue for investing in that project. Planning permission was extended a couple of times, which allowed the project to be commenced. Issues have arisen since, which are now the subject of a requirement to initiate a new planning application for what has been completed and planned.”
“I wish the Minister of State well in his role. I thank him for coming to the Seanad to provide his statement and listen to contributions from Members. I am certainly not an expert in this area. I will defer to colleagues like Senator Manus Boyle with his interest and work in this area over a long number of years. What I have heard from fishing communities over many years, and the Minister of State will have heard this himself, is that we were sold out in 1973, that the small fishermen have been sidelined, that the share is in the control of a small few, that EU super-trawlers are doing huge damage to our waters and that there is too much regulation and prosecution, especially for small fishers. This is what I have heard up and down coastal communities over the years.”
“We are awaiting a response from the Minister as to how he plans to proceed on the recommendations from the European Commission.”
“The Departments of disability, Transport and Health need to come together as a sort of working group and one of them, probably the Department of disability, needs to be the lead Department. One way to go would be for the Senator to engage with the Minister of State, Deputy Naughton, to request that a working group be established under her Department and work with the Departments of Transport and Health to find a solution to this problem. I will also engage with the Minister of State on the matter. Senators Sarah O'Reilly and Mullen referred to hate speech and the EU requirements in this regard. The Minister, Deputy Jim O'Callaghan, is examining the issue. There are suggestions that legislation must be implemented by 13 July, which is unlikely to happen at this stage.”
“It is an interesting proposition. If we are an outlier without good reason on this matter, it makes sense that we should recognise chess as a sport. Senator Gallagher called for a debate on housing, particularly in respect of funding for the use of over-the-shop units. The croí cónaithe scheme has made excellent progress across the country in bringing new life back to rural and urban communities. It has been a huge success and I certainly would support its extension. I will try to arrange a debate on that. Senator Lynch again raised the issue of adult disability day services and the disparity in provision as between those aged under and over 18. I will again request a debate on this, but the question is with which Minister it should be. Part of the problem is that, as with many such issues, a number of Departments are involved.”
“Senators Fitzpatrick and Mullen acknowledged the passing of Brother Kevin Crowley, who came to Dublin 56 years ago as a Capuchin friar and did great work in the subsequent years in assisting people who needed help. I am sure thousands have passed through his door in that period and were given support. I convey my sympathies to his family and his Capuchin friar colleagues. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis. Senator Brady raised the interesting point that Ireland, Belgium and Sweden are the only three countries in Europe not to recognise chess as a sport rather than a game. I hope to have statements on sport in the last week of the term with the Minister of State, Deputy McConalogue, and the Minister, Deputy O'Donovan. The Senator will have an opportunity to raise the issue then or he might choose to raise it as a Commencement matter.”
“I congratulate all who worked to achieve that. Such operations can be painstaking in terms of time, intelligence and all else that goes with them. Senator O'Donovan called for a debate on policing in rural Ireland. The allocation of gardaí is a matter for the Garda Commissioner. Garda numbers are a matter of funding and support provided by the State. Changes have been made over a number of years to the age of entry to and retirement from An Garda Síochána to assist in growing the numbers. That is working but the allocations are a matter for the Commissioner. I will request a debate on the matter. In addition, we will have statements on drugs next week with the Minister for Health.”
“It certainly seems strange that this can be allowed. I concur with the Senator's call for a review of the matter by the Medical Council. It is important that people who have a valid illness can obtain the sick certificate and the days off work to which they are entitled. However, having an online system and a drop-down menu seems very strange. I agree there should be a review by the Medical Council. I will ask the Minister, Deputy Carroll MacNeill, to pursue the matter. Senator Craughwell raised the upcoming commemorations on 12 and 13 July of the Irish citizens and peacekeepers who lost their lives in various wars. He mentioned the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War cemetery. Both he and Senator O'Donovan applauded those involved in the seizure of drugs worth €30 million off the coast at Courtmacsherry.”
“Senator Paul Daly congratulated Councillor Aoife Davitt, sister of our colleague Senator Davitt, on becoming the first female cathaoirleach of Westmeath County Council. I concur with that and wish her well in what I hope will be a productive and enjoyable term for her. The Senator also called for a debate on food security, which I support. CAP was originally put in place to provide food security for Europe after the Second World War. Indeed, the establishment of the EEC was about food security, and CAP is integral to that. There is a lot happening at the moment regarding the MFF. I will request a debate with the Minister, Deputy Heydon, as soon as possible. Senator P. J. Murphy spoke about the issuing of online sick notes and prescriptions. The ingenuity of people in coming up with schemes for making money never ceases to amaze me.”
“Trade missions and visits like this are important in cementing the relationship between our two countries and growing trade and partnership. The Senator also spoke about Lafcadio Hearn and gave a great history of his work and his connections to the Tramore area. Senator Andrews called for a debate with the Minister, Deputy O'Donovan, on the redevelopment of the GPO, which I will try to arrange. The plans for the GPO, which will go to the Cabinet shortly, include a museum. I hope the redevelopment will bring life back to the north inner city. O'Connell Street is our main thoroughfare and the GPO is an iconic building. I hope whatever plans are finally agreed bring new life and energy to that part of our capital city.”
“Senator Duffy raised the lack of pay parity as between Tús and RSS supervisors and CE supervisors. He noted that an assistant CE supervisor gets more or less the same pay on a yearly basis as does a supervisor in Tús and the RSS. These matters are all in the mix in the Department of Social Protection. I understand CE supervisors are employed by local community companies, whereas Tús and the RSS are administered by community development companies. Therein may lie the difference. The Senator might get some clarity by raising this issue as a Commencement matter. I will raise it with the Minister. Senator Conway spoke about the connections between Ireland and Japan. The Taoiseach is in Japan at the moment and has met with the Japanese Prime Minister, Mr. Ishiba.”
“I thank Senators for this contributions. Senator O'Loughlin raised the fact no music festival since 2018 has been broadcast or streamed by RTÉ. I agree with the statement by the Music and Entertainment Association of Ireland that the failure by RTÉ to cover Electric Picnic is a missed opportunity to showcase Irish performers. The Senator mentioned Junefest in Newbridge and the Fáilte Ireland briefing she attended. She raised the possibility of additional regional funding for Kildare. Senator O'Loughlin also talked about the IVF legislation, in the formulation of which she played an integral part, working with the then Minister, Stephen Donnelly. She called for changes to the eligibility criteria such that those who have had IVF treatment in the past are not excluded. I will raise that with the Minister, Deputy Carroll MacNeill.”
“The Order of Business is No. 1, statements on sea fisheries, to be taken at 1 p.m. and to conclude at 2.30 p.m. if not previously concluded, with time allocated to the opening remarks of the Minister not to exceed ten minutes, group spokespersons not to exceed ten minutes, all other Senators not to exceed five minutes, time may be shared, and the Minister to be given not less than eight minutes to reply to the debate; No. 2, Private Member's business, Health (Scoliosis Treatment Services) Bill 2024 - Report and Final Stages, to be taken at 3 p.m. and to adjourn at 5 p.m. if not previously concluded; and No. 3, Private Member's business, Domestic Violence (Amendment) Bill 2024 - Committee Stage, to be taken at 5.30 p.m. and to adjourn at 7.30 p.m. if not previously concluded.”