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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“We might be able to check to see which Department might be best placed to answer that Commencement matter. There should not be buck passing. The Senator is right that his issue is not being dealt with because of that. Senator Clonan also raised the issue of disability and asked for a debate. There is a debate today at 4.30 p.m. on disability matters. I am sure there will be a good turnout on that very important issue. Senators Collins, Cathal Byrne and Martin Conway raised vaping, the proliferation of vape shops and the possibility of legislative changes to ban flavours. Senator Collins spoke about the implications of that. The Public Health (Single-Use Vapes) Bill 2025 is due in this House, if not next week, then very soon. There is a second Bill regarding the licensing of premises.”
“Senator Scahill raised a report from the health committee on dental services and the lack of spaces for those applying to become dentists and he called for a debate on the report. That would be a very worthy debate to have. I have suggested previously that retired dentists might be rehired to carry out checks within schools. They would not have to do procedural work but they could have an important role in ensuring that those very important health check-ups were carried out in schools. I will request a debate on that report. Senator Clonan has raised the Cluain services in Clonmel in south Tipperary and the work it is doing. There are some concerns regarding disability allowance being required to be transferred to Cluain as part of that. He has put down a Commencement matter debate on this but it has fallen between two Departments.”
“I thank all Senators this morning for their contributions, starting with Senator O’Loughlin, who raised the issue of prostitution and the recent report from Northern Ireland. She said we were not immune to those issues here. She commended Ruhama and the Rose's House accommodation. She also said we needed to learn from EU efforts and she called for a debate on this matter. We will request that from the Minister, Deputy Jim O’Callaghan. She also raised the sports capital grants, a recent meeting with the Minister of State, Deputy McConalogue, and the issue of scarcity of land for sports facilities, particularly in urban areas. I will request a debate with the Minister of State in advance of the sports capital grants.”
“3, statements on disability matters, to be taken at 4.30 p.m. and to conclude at 6.10 p.m., if not previously, concluded, with time allocated to the opening remarks the Minister not to exceed ten minutes, group spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes each, all other Senators not to exceed five minutes each, and the Minister to be given no less than ten minutes to reply to the debate; and No. 4, statements on homelessness (resumed), to be taken at 6.15 p.m. and to conclude at 7.15 p.m., if not previously concluded, with time allocated to the contribution of all Senators not to exceed four minutes, and the Minister to be given no less than ten minutes to reply to the debate.”
“The Order of Business is No. 1, statements on prisons and alternative sentencing options, to be taken at 1 p.m. and to conclude at 2.30 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 eight minutes each, all other Senators not to exceed five minutes each, and the Minister to be given no less than ten minutes to reply to the debate; No. 2, the Air Navigation and Transport (Arms Embargo) Bill 2024 - Report and Final Stages, to be taken at 2.30 p.m., with proceedings thereon, if not previously concluded, to be brought to a conclusion at 4.30 p.m. by the putting one question from the Chair, which shall, in relation to amendments, include only those set down or accepted by the Government; No.”
“He also raised his own business in the haulage sector and the pressures and margins in the haulage sector. The Government has tried to respond over the last number of days, as they did before this, in relation to the diesel rebate. We will continue to keep these under review. As Senator Craughwell said, we do not know where oil prices are going to go over the next number of weeks and months and over the rest of the year. Hopefully things will settle and start to drop. We cannot be absolutely sure on that. That is why the Government has to be able to be agile and robust in trying to reduce the costs and pressures on businesses.”
“Senator Boyhan raised the issue of solar panels and planning applications. There is an ongoing debate about energy security. Judging by valid contributions from many people in these Houses, there are so many people who have concerns about onshore wind, offshore wind, LNG, solar panels, battery farms, peaking plants, oil exploration, the nuclear debate and interconnectors. This is a real issue, but energy security is so important. There is a balance to be struck on all of this. I will request a debate with the Minister in relation to the whole area of solar and its use on agricultural lands. There are other properties, whether they be rooftops or car parks, where these could be focused on, rather than on farmland. Senator McCarthy acknowledged the late Moya Brennan. May she rest in peace. She was a supporter of Tiglin.”
“She is due in the Chamber in the coming weeks to speak on international affairs. That may be an opportunity for the Senator to raise these matters. Senator Keogan quite rightly raised the recent comments by President Trump to Pope Leo and the imagery that has been used officially in which Trump was depicted as Jesus. It was not particularly welcome. Certainly, it has undermined him in the views of many Roman Catholics and bolstered the support for Pope Leo in his work. Senators Boyhan and McCarthy acknowledged the role of the former Minister of State, Deputy Michael Healy-Rae, and I join them in that regard. I am sure that resigning as a Minister of State was a huge upset to him, his family and his supporters. I acknowledge that and wish him well for what will no doubt be a continued long career in politics.”
“Senator Cathal Byrne raised Storm Chandra ripping through Wexford and had a request for the Department of Transport. Regarding this specific issue, he may put down a Commencement matter. As I said, I have asked the Minister, Deputy O’Brien, to come to the Chamber to talk about the whole issue of roads funding. I will try to get an update on that and, perhaps, secure availability from the Minister. Senator Clonan raised the triple lock, the talk of international forces, the aid to civil power and civil authority and the need for a debate on parliamentary oversight. I will request a debate on that. We have had the Minister, Deputy McEntee, in the Seanad recently on defence matters. Indeed, we had a Fianna Fáil Private Members' motion on defence. Some of these issues were aired then.”
“Senator Duffy called for supports for those sectors impacted by the fuel crisis. He mentioned ferry operators, which is a valid contribution and one which I have not seen in the dispatches. Certainly, it is something the Government will provide supports for. I acknowledge the role of Councillor Peter Flynn in bringing this issue to his attention. He may wish to put down a Commencement matter with the Minister with the responsibility for the islands or raise it directly with the Government. I will do so as well. He has also called for continued supports for the inshore sector. As I understand it, there is a debate next Tuesday with the Minister, Deputy Heydon, on agricultural supports in the context of the challenges within the sector over recent weeks. He also wished the Balla boys, who are on tour, well in their event in Croke Park.”
“She asked me to raise the issue with the Minister, Deputy Foley. Senator Tully might put down a Commencement matter on that question to get a particular answer. She also called for a debate with the Minister, Deputy O’Brien, regarding our roads allocation. We have a request in with the Minister. I understand he is willing to come to the Chamber but we have to finalise a date. Senator Flynn called for a debate on Traveller accommodation. She talked about the redevelopment that is now not going ahead in Labre Park. I will request that debate but she may wish to put down a Commencement matter regarding that specific development. I know the issue is in The Irish Times , as she mentioned, today. She may get a more direct response about the reasoning or rationale behind that decision by doing so.”
“While we have seen increases over the last number of years, it is important that we provide adequate services and increased frequency where there is demand. We must also increase the number of bus shelters, which many local authorities are putting in place. Where they are provided, they are welcomed because they provide that level of comfort to people who are choosing public transport. Senator Craughwell raised concerns about the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and how we will see the oil price shock continue and increase, alongside the possibility of industrial unrest. I will request a debate with the Minister for Finance, Deputy Harris, on the matter. Senator Tully raised the specific case about supports for twins with autism who are starting school in September.”
“She also talked about the documentary by Kathryn Thomas - I have not seen it – and the rise in cosmetic treatments, particularly for those under 18 years of age. She called for a debate with the Minister for Health, which I will certainly request. It is an important issue in the context of body image and everything else, particularly for young people in the age of social media and all the rest of it. I will request that debate. Senator Joe O’Reilly talked about the ongoing oil crisis and conflict in the Middle East and how it is impacting on the need to invest in public transport. He called for a review of public transport availability and a debate on this whole matter. I will request a debate on public transport.”
“I thank all Senators for their contributions this morning. I will start with Senator Fiona O’Loughlin, who acknowledged the recent Hungarian election and the new pro-EU Government there. She wished the new Prime Minister and Government in Hungary well. I certainly hope it will now be more pro-European and there will be more liberal democracy as part of this new Government. She also called for a debate with the Minister for education regarding the increase in financial pressures on people following the removal of the once-off payments in relation to exam fees. She also mentioned the increase in transport costs and questioned whether they are fair and equitable. I will request a debate with the Minister for education, Deputy McEntee, and her Department in that regard.”
“55, motion 2, Private Members' Business, motion regarding investment in youth work, to be taken at 6.30 p.m. with the time allocated to this debate not to exceed two hours.”
“and to conclude at 4 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 no less than ten minutes to reply to the debate; No. 3, statements on homelessness to be taken at 5 p.m. 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 eight minutes each, all other Senators not to exceed four minutes each, time may be shared, and the Minister to be given no less than ten minutes to reply to the debate; and No.”
“The Order of Business is No. 1, Proceeds of Crime and Related Matters Bill 2025 - Second Stage, to be taken at 1 p.m. and to conclude at 2.30 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 eight minutes each, all other Senators not to exceed five minutes each, time may be shared, and the Minister to be given no less than ten minutes to reply to the debate; No. 2, Microenterprise Loan Fund (Amendment) Bill 2024 - Second Stage to be taken at 2.30 p.m.”
“I will certainly engage with Tusla and see if we can progress this issue for the benefit of the people in Clifden and north Connemara.”
“I thank the Minister of State on behalf of the Department of children for that comprehensive response and the important role Tusla has in evaluating and adjudicating on applications for new family resource centres. I welcome the fact that the Minister intends to pursue additional family resource centres in line with the programme for Government commitment. I will engage with Tusla following this to see what the local community in Clifden and north Connemara can do in advocating and pushing for a family resource centre. The Minister of State quite rightly spoke of the benefits and importance in his own role, as all public representatives have, in engaging with family resource centres on behalf of vulnerable families who come across his office or clinic.”
“I believe this would be a perfect fit for a family resource centre to engage with the services and complement the services presently in Oughterard. What I am looking for is advice in terms of how we could progress this. What engagement is needed? What would be the pathway to developing a family resource centre in the area? Obviously, it is linked to budget but there also are practicalities in respect of the capital and current budget which would be important, as well as the know-how on how these issues are decided. What criteria are in place to decide where a new family resource centre would be established? What advice can the Minister of State's Department give in relation to establishing a family resource centre for the Clifden and north Connemara area?”
“I believe a dedicated centre would be a perfect fit for Clifden providing a non-stigmatising walk-in hub where people could access support early, before issues escalate. The Clifden-north Connemara area has some unique challenges in terms of precarious work linked to the hospitality and tourism area, which is impacted during the winter period. There are traditional industries such as farming and fishing which have their own challenges. There are some 523 households in council houses across Connemara, alongside sheltered and housing for older people and mental health service users. There are also 500 people on the live register including a growing number of those under the age of 25. Again, that may be linked to precarious employment.”
“However, looking at the map of the country where there are 121 family resource centres, I believe there is a gap in the north Connemara-Clifden area for a dedicated family resource centre. This would provide family support and well-being services including one-to-one support parenting programmes, low-cost counselling and youth supports such as after-school programmes, holiday activities and targeted support for young people at risk. It would provide community development initiatives including groups for older people, carers and new communities. It would also offer practical supports such as information and advocacy to help people to become more sustainable and responsive to local needs.”
“Gabhaim buíochas leis an gCathaoirleach. Tá mé buíoch as an deis seo a fháil inniu sa Seanad. Tá fáilte roimh an Aire Stáit, an Teachta Feighan. The Minister of State, Deputy Feighan, is welcome to the Chamber today to discuss the issues of family resource centres and the need for one in Clifden and the north Connemara area. The Minister of State will be familiar with Galway and Connemara. It is a large area, geographically sparse with pockets of population in many different, remote areas of the community centred around the service town of Clifden. Family resource centres are hugely important in terms of their interventions and working with the disadvantaged and those in need. Oughterard presently serves the Connemara area.”
“We acknowledge the importance of it to the economy of this country as a food-exporting country in terms of beef and milk products and other products of value that we produce. It is an issue and obviously the nitrates directive includes reference to water quality and the establishment of the Cabinet committee on water quality. I do acknowledge the importance of the nitrates derogation to Irish farmers and to our economy.”
“The Senator may wish to put down a Commencement matter about the meals on wheels with the Minister for Social Protection and see if she gets any clarity on that. Senator Lynch raised what she called the deeply irresponsible action by An Taisce with regard to the nitrates derogation. It is sending a terrible message and that is regrettable. I know there has been a lot of work done by the Minister, Deputy Heydon, and the Government to ensure that the nitrates derogation was secured for a period of three years. It was hard fought for and it certainly has been hugely welcomed by the Irish Farmers Association, the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association, ICMSA, and farm organisations on the dairying side in particular.”
“The Bill regarding the National Oil Reserves Agency, NORA, will come before the House tomorrow. It will pause the levy on petrol and diesel for two months, which will have an impact on home heating oil. We have also seen the cuts in excise on green diesel. I acknowledge that all these things are being kept under review. If this conflict in Iran continues into the medium term, that could, unfortunately, have serious impacts on our whole economy and everything would have to be kept under review. Senator Rabbitte raised the issue of meals on wheels, the recent meeting of the social protection committee and the concerns of LEADER companies regarding a shortage of funding. I am sure that the present conflict will add costs to those as well. Diesel prices would add would add costs to those too.”
“The budget 2026 carbon tax allocation measures funded include residential and community energy efficiency, the green climate fund, the just transition fund, targeted social protection interventions of €350 million, community energy efficiency, which has an allocation of €558 million for 2026, incentivising green and sustainable farming and green agricultural pilots to a total of €170 million, greenways, urban cycling, EV charging infrastructure and providing grants for EVs of €20 million, as well as €5 million for peatlands rehabilitation. Such measures total €1.114 billion. That is where the carbon tax goes. I acknowledge the pressures people are under. As I said, any increases have to be decided closer to the time. I acknowledge that. I also acknowledge the Government supports provided yesterday for hard-pressed motorists.”
“Senator McCormack raised the issue of paramedics who have not been offered permanent contracts. I will check out the latest information. Progress had been made last week, and I understood those graduating this year would be offered full-time permanent contract with the National Ambulance Service, there would be a range of opportunities available and that agreement had been reached with the trade union. Perhaps the finer print is the issue. I will raise the matter with the Minister. Senators Sarah O'Reilly, McCarthy and Martin Conway raised the cost of fuel. Senator Conway called for a debate on the long-term review of taxes on fuel. I will request that debate. Senator O'Reilly raised the issue of the carbon tax, which is due to increase in May. That is still some time off and all these things are kept under review.”
“We hope to see publication of the Bill soon and its progression through the Houses. Senator Cathal Byrne raised the safe routes to school programme and referenced Raheen, a small community in County Wexford. He may wish to seek a Commencement debate on the safe routes to school programme. There is huge demand and a lot of plans, and good work has been done. There is frustration for those who run the scheme in terms of delays, as well as those who cannot avail of the scheme. He may wish to seek a Commencement debate on that. Senator Clonan again raised concerns regarding the triple lock. He spoke about the possibility of troops being deployed to Iran by the United States, an illegal war and the abandoning of the UN convention, which has been a theme in a number of his contributions here today. I will request a debate on those matters.”
“Senator Joe O'Reilly commended the recent success of Bailieborough Community School. He also called for a debate with the Minister of State, Deputy O'Donnell, on older persons and the progression support towards a statutory home care scheme. I will request an update from the Minister of State on that matter. Senator Joe Conway raised the issue of Russia and some high-profile individuals calling out President Putin. He called for a debate on the conflict in Ukraine, which I will request with the Minister for foreign affairs. Senator Stephenson again raised the plight of Palestinians and issues regarding delays in the occupied territories Bill. I know from the Tánaiste that the Minister for foreign affairs has engaged with the Attorney General and has received and replied to questions on this matter.”
“The Senator mentioned Scoil an Chroí Naofa, Ballinasloe, in regard to the school building programme and the inequalities evident in the community. DEIS plus acknowledges and engages with attendance, engagement and retention, student well-being, strengthening school leadership, improving access to opportunities and services and supporting the transition to further and higher education. The Senator also acknowledged Roscommon Community College, which won drama awards for a 1960s play about the Magdalen laundries. Senator Andrews referenced an individual who unfortunately took his own life and the protocols for persons on suicide watch. He said there is no inquest after three years and called for a debate on the coroner's office. I will request a debate with the Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan, on that important matter.”
“Unfortunately, I cannot accept an amendment. Senator Higgins also raised the issue of violations on overflight arms transfers in Belgium and elsewhere. She spoke about complicity in this area across different EU countries and called for a debate with Ministers for Defence and Transport. Senator Andrews has supported that request. I will request a debate with the Ministers on that. Senator Sharon Keogan called for a debate on Islamic extremism. She drew a distinction between that and law-abiding Muslims. She called for a debate on our intelligence policies. I will request a debate on the matter. The State is no stranger to all that has gone on across Ireland. Senator Scahill commended the Minister, Deputy Naughton, on the DEIS plus programme. Some €40 million is allocated annually.”
“Senator Conor Murphy discussed the Catalpa ship, the commemorations in Fremantle in Perth marking what happened 150 years ago and the general amnesty for prisoners at the time, with the exception of six. He has called for commemorations in this country. I will raise the matter with the Minister for arts and culture, Deputy O'Donovan. The Senator could also seek a Commencement debate on the matter. Senator Higgins, supported by Senator Boyhan, proposed an amendment to the Order of Business regarding the International Protection Bill. Senator Boyhan referenced a letter from the Ombudsman for Children. The Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan, has given a lot of time to the Bill and I appreciate the interest. He has attended most of the debates and will be here for five hours to debate Report and Final Stages later today.”
“He may table a Commencement debate on that matter. There are good examples around the country of old barracks and buildings being used for community purposes. I acknowledge his interest in the matter and he could seek a Commencement debate with the Office of Public Works. Senators Craughwell and Maria Byrne raised the issue of inheritance tax which penalises ordinary families, in particular in respect of the family home where the threshold for passing assets onto one's offspring is €400,000. For nephews, nieces and others the limit is €40,000. They acknowledged the issue for childless couples. I will request a debate with the Minister for Finance on the matter of inheritance tax.”
“I thank all Senators for their contributions. Senator O'Loughlin acknowledged the Special Olympics and the Irish football team playing against Czechia tomorrow. She also mentioned Sam Whelan from Newbridge, a young filmmaker whose film "The Wrong Jumper" was nominated for an award. I wish him well. The Senator also referred to the reduction in excise duty reflected at the pumps and called for engagement with Bord na Móna regarding new state-of-the-art landmark buildings and the old buildings in Newbridge. She says she will seek a Commencement debate on that, but she might engage directly with the Minister, Deputy O'Brien, in that regard. It is an important issue for the community of Newbridge. Senator Doyle raised Clogher Barracks, which closed in 1999, and interest in the local community regarding other uses for the site.”
“The Order of Business is No. 1, the International Protection Bill 2026 – Report and Final Stages, to be taken at 1 p.m., and the proceedings thereon shall, if not previously concluded, be brought to a conclusion at 6 p.m. by the putting of one question from the Chair which shall in relation to amendments include only those set down or accepted by the Government; and No. 54, motion 1, Private Members' business, a motion regarding a constitutional referendum to specify the number of members of Dáil Éireann, to be taken at 6.30 p.m., with the time allocated to this debate not to exceed two hours.”
“I thank the Minister of State for the clarity in relation to the process of the NCPE and the CPU of the HSE. I appreciate that these are commercially sensitive issues. Aoife has acknowledged that Ireland holds the EU Presidency from 1 July. There may be opportunities for collaboration with other European countries in respect of, as I said, purchasing power or bulk buying, if you like, or co-operation with certain countries, such as the Benelux countries, as was discussed in the past. It is a valid suggestion by her. It is progressive thinking to note the possibilities that come with the EU Presidency. I certainly hope that, notwithstanding whatever the price may be, we, as a State, recognise the possible benefits of slowing the progression of a condition such as Friedreich's ataxia for people such as Aoife and others.”
“Aoife indicated that if she has to travel and live abroad and move her family to gain access to this drug, that is something that they would have to consider. It should be a right. We should be able to look after people here in our own country.”
“What steps are being taken to ensure that the HSE might recognise and respond to the critical nature of Friedreich's ataxia during the current price negotiations with Skyclarys? How are the commitments outlined in the national rare disease strategy, which aims for a 180-day decision timeline, being applied in this case to prevent further delays in addressing this unmet need? Aoife went on to say that Ireland is one of the wealthiest countries in the world but there are issues in terms of access to orphan drugs, with only 20% of rare disease drugs being funded. There has always been talking about using bulk-buying capacity with other countries within the European Union. Is that something that could be looked at?”
“Reimbursement of Skyclarys in Ireland would slow the progression of this disease and give Aoife and others the chance to maintain their strength and independence for as long as possible. She is one of approximately 200 people in Ireland suffering with Friedreich's ataxia. As I said, it is a hereditary genetic condition. Access to this treatment would not only help people like Aoife but also teenagers who are newly diagnosed and who, with timely intervention, may be spared some of the suffering experienced by those before them. It would offer hope not just to patients but to entire families. There was a briefing here recently. The Minister of State's colleague, Deputy Cleere, brought in a group of people, all of whom were in wheelchairs due to progression of the disease and the condition.”
“Aoife said that she chose to delay receiving the results of her tests until after her leaving certificate as she wanted to focus on her exams without the added weight of a serious neurological diagnosis, especially during the uncertainty of the Covid pandemic. When the diagnosis was finally confirmed, she said she, her parents and her sisters were thrust into the reality of where her future suddenly seemed frightfully limited. She grieved the life she had envisioned for herself. She is fortunate at this stage that she can still walk, but she lives with severe balance and co-ordination difficulties. Friedreich's ataxia is relentless and progressive. Every day brings further loss. As the Minister of State knows, a drug called Skyclarys can slow the progression of Friedreich's ataxia.”
“From that point on, her life changed completely. As the Minister of State knows, Friedreich's ataxia is a rare inherited disease. It damages the spinal cord, peripheral nerves and the cerebellum part of the brain. It also leads to heart problems. The disease tends to develop in children in their teens and gets worse over time, with unsteady, awkward moments and a loss of feeling due to nerve injury developing as the disease gets worse. People with the disorder may have other health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease, along with the nervous system symptoms. That is according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. Symptoms can include trouble walking, tiredness, a loss of feeling that starts in the legs and spreads, loss of reflexes, slow or slurred speech, hearing loss, vision loss, chest pain, shortness of breath and heart palpitations.”
“I thank the Cathaoirleach for choosing this Commencement matter this morning. I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Butler. It is good to have a Minister from the relevant Department, in this case, the Department of Health. I want to talk about a particular case. I met a young girl and her mother on Monday in my office. While she gave me permission to use her full name, I will only use her first name here. Her name is Aoife and she is from Galway. She was diagnosed with Friedreich's ataxia in 2021 during her leaving certificate year. Prior to this, she had been misdiagnosed with apraxia. In October 2020, shortly after she turned 18, a neurologist in Galway took blood tests to investigate Friedreich's ataxia. She said that moment marked the first time she had heard the words "Friedreich's ataxia".”
“Senator McCarthy raised the matter of addiction services, the important work of Tiglin, the failure of the rehabilitation system and the need for better in the context of the system not meeting needs and lives being left in the balance. I will request a debate on the issue of drugs and addiction services. Senator Cathal Byrne raised the need for urgent funding. There is a €20 million request from Wexford County Council to the Department and the Government for the repair of the roads and bridges damaged in recent storms. I will certainly support that. He may wish to put down a Commencement debate on the matter to get a more direct response from the Department.”
“Senator Flynn, supported by Senator Scahill, raised the issue of children with dyslexia and dyspraxia and the comments of President Trump. I agree with what both Senators said in that whole area. Like all politicians, presidents will face future elections, in the mid-terms in the case of President Trump as part of the democratic process there. Senator Scahill also acknowledged the journey towards sainthood of Fr. Flanagan of Ballymoe, County Galway, in the diocese of Elphin and his work on the creation of Boys Town in Omaha, Nebraska. The Senator pivoted to the ten-week driving test delays and appealed for divine intervention in, or at least a Government response to, what was an important and serious issue. I will request the Minister of State, Deputy Canney, look at that matter.”
“They are not being continued. This announcement was based on what happened with one-off measures last year. The Senator may wish to put down a Commencement debate on that to see if any changes are being proposed. Senator Tully has rightly raised the important role of young carers and the valuable work they do. There are between 6,000 and 7,000 young carers nationwide and supporters are creating awareness of this matter. I will again request a debate on carers with the Minister. Senator Boyhan asked for a follow-up debate on the Inspector of Prisons report laid before the Houses regarding unannounced inspections. That particularly relates to Mountjoy. I have raised this matter with the Minister and invited him before the House. I understand he is due to come here on 21 April to discuss the Mountjoy report.”
“This levy also applies to home heating oil and will reduce the price of that fuel by 2 cent per litre as well as the 3 cent per litre cut in excise on green diesel and a temporary increase in the maximum rebate allowable under the diesel rebate scheme, which is administered by Revenue, to 12 cent per litre until 30 June. Heating payments to social welfare recipients will be extended for four weeks and there will be enhancements to a rebate programme for hauliers. Those measures have been brought before the Dáil today and the NORA legislation will be towards the end of the week. Clearly, the Government has responded and stated that these things will be kept under review and monitored. Senator Kennelly discussed the temporary measures introduced in recent years to waive student exam fees for the junior and leaving certificate exams.”
“Senator Boyle welcomed the subsidy for bus and haulage companies but stated there needs to be more for the marine sector, contractors and farmers. I know that green diesel will be cut by 3 cent per litre, VAT inclusive. The National Oil Reserves Agency, NORA, levy on petrol and diesel will be paused for two months, and I understand this legislation may be coming to this House towards the end of the week. Senator Collins also raised the measures announced today, which will see the price of diesel fall by a total of 22 cent per litre and petrol by 17 cent per litre. The reduction includes a VAT-inclusive excise duty cut per litre of 20 cent on diesel and 15 cent on petrol, which will come into effect at midnight tonight and last until the end of May. The 2 cent per litre NORA levy on petrol and diesel will be paused for two months.”
“She talked about the proper visibility of rates and commented that there were court cases in this regard. I will request a debate with the Minister. It is the Minister for local government who is in charge of rates. She also may wish to put down a debate with the Minister for enterprise in relation to the DAA. Senator Flaherty raised the issue of our national games and their importance in terms of our culture. He spoke about the plans in relation to camogie and ladies' football amalgamating with the GAA. I certainly agree with the need to ensure that everybody, particularly youngsters, know the origins of the games and that they are part of our culture, and ensure they have opportunities to play and support the games as well.”
“Senator Comyn raised world Down's syndrome day and called for a debate regarding the lack of special class provisions. This has been raised regarding the Louth-Meath branch of Down Syndrome Ireland. I will certainly request a debate on that matter with the Minister. Senator Lynch raised the Residential Tenancies Board, RTB, and the need for co-ordination between it and local authorities. She referred to the need to look closely at and bring forward practical solutions in cases where there are issues and the RTB cannot help because it does not have, as I understand from what the Senator said, the addresses of tenants. Clearly, there are shortcomings in relation to proper liaison. Senator Keogan raised the issue of commercial rates, particularly in respect of the DAA and other such bodies.”