Teresa Costello
Agricultural Panel · Fianna Fáil · Ireland
“For example, in Tallaght, Firhouse and Ballyroan, people are telling me that the road and junction narrowing has led to increased congestion, longer journey times and frustration on the part of motorists, while also making it more difficult for buses, delivery vehicles and larger vehicles to navigate safely.”
“Likewise, long-acting reversible contraception such as implants and intrauterine devices will continue to be provided through appropriately trained medical professionals. These safeguards ensure that patient safety remains at the heart of this new service. The legislation represents good use of public resources.”
“I thank the Minister of State for being here today. Over the past few years and during my time as a councillor, there have been many changes to the roads in my area. It led me to ask the Minister to undertake a comprehensive review of the design manual for urban roads and streets, commonly known as DMURS.”
“I am not the first to raise this and I will not be the last but I am constantly receiving reports - one as recently as this morning - about the huge number of dumped nitrous oxide canisters in the community. If there is a car park that does not have a gate on it is left full of these. I have had to clear up car parks with people.”
“While I acknowledge the council's position, many local people's lived experience has been different from what has been said about DMURS. We are seeing queues building up at peak times, greater difficulty accessing side roads and a road network that is becoming less efficient for everyone who depends on it.”
“I looked at one particular junction where cars were constantly overshooting white lines. It was very confusing and difficult for motorists. The proposed removal of village car parking under DMURS creates significant challenges.”
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“I acknowledge that these issues are not the fault of South Dublin County Council, which is always extremely responsive, but I would like to see a more focused effort from ESB Networks to prioritise the repair of street lights, pedestrian crossings and traffic lights as urgent matters. Well-lit roads and streets are essential to ensuring safety, especially at night. While we have made great strides in improving road safety, there is still much to do. Ireland’s Government Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030 is an important step forward but it will require ongoing collaboration and commitment from all sectors of society, government, local authorities, law enforcement and the public to make our roads safer for everyone.”
“I could be wrong, but I believe that the last time it was reviewed was in 2019, so we need to assess whether some aspects of these designs are achieving their intended safety outcomes or simply causing unnecessary distress for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians alike. I would also like to see more opportunity for vital input from local councillors when projects are being planned, because their input is invaluable. Another ongoing issue in the constituency is poor lighting, which continues to be a significant concern. Delays in repairing public lighting, particularly due to issues with parts and labour, have made certain areas darker and more hazardous.”
“In my constituency of Dublin South-West, particularly Tallaght, I have received reports from motorists who feel less safe due to certain changes in road designs under the design manual for urban roads and streets, DMURS. While I fully support measures to encourage active travel, such as safer cycling and pedestrian paths, it is equally important that we also consider the needs of motorists. In particular, some road narrowing measures, such as those seen on Firhouse Road West, have raised concerns. The narrowing of junctions has made drivers feel less safe, with many overshooting white lines at busy intersections. I believe it is time to revisit the DMURS standards.”
“We all have a role to play in making sure that everybody who uses our roads, whether motorists, cyclists or pedestrians, can do so safely. The Department of Transport continues to make road safety a priority and the approach is clear. We must save lives and prevent serious injuries for all road users. The starting point is recognising that road deaths and serious injuries should not be the price we pay for mobility. This is a fundamental principle that underpins Ireland’s Government Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030. This strategy sets out an ambitious goal to reduce serious injuries and fatalities by 50% by 2030 and to achieve Vision Zero by 2050. This is something we must strive for. In addition to national efforts, it is important to address specific local concerns.”
“In 2024, there have been 174 deaths on our roads and, tragically, 35 people have lost their lives in road incidents this year alone. This serves as a stark reminder that we cannot be complacent in our efforts to reduce fatalities and injuries on our roads. The causes of these deaths are clear: speeding, distracted driving, not wearing seat belts and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These are all preventable behaviours and ultimately come down to one thing, personal responsibility. Whether we are behind a wheel, on a bicycle or walking in the street, we all have a responsibility to be aware of our actions and the safety of those around us. While much has been done to improve road safety, we must continue to be vigilant. Road safety is not solely the responsibility of authorities. It is a shared responsibility.”
“I welcome the Minister of State to the Seanad. It is important that we have this opportunity to speak to him today about an issue that affects us all. It is not just a matter of statistics, but is about the lives of our fellow citizens and the safety of our families, friends and communities. Over the past two decades we have seen a significant reduction in road fatalities in Ireland. In 1997, we tragically lost 472 lives on our roads. By 2021, this number had been reduced to 137. This transformation is a testament to the work of the Department of Transport, the Road Safety Authority, An Garda Síochána and many other stakeholders who have worked together to make our roads safer. However, despite this progress, it was very worrying to see a recent reversal of this trend.”
“My party believes a well-funded CAP is essential to supporting farm incomes, ensuring food security and contributing meaningfully to broader EU objectives. These include tackling climate change, promoting biodiversity and driving innovation in the agriculture sector. We are committed to working closely with farmers, stakeholders and partners to ensure CAP continues to deliver for Ireland's agricultural future. We will stand firm in ensuring the future of our agriculture industry, strengthening its competitiveness and resilience on the global stage.”
“I acknowledge the farmers in my constituency in Bohernabreena. Sometimes it surprises people when farming and Dublin are mentioned in the same sentence. A huge issue they face is trouble getting planning on their own land. This prevents them from operating effectively. I am aware of some farmers who live a 25-minute drive away from their farms. We can imagine the issues that causes. It suffocates their progression. The current CAP programme in Ireland provides €9.8 billion over its term from 2023 to 2027. It is a critical resource in supporting farm incomes and ensuring the sustainability of the sector. As Ireland prepares to hold the EU Presidency in 2026, this will be a moment of huge significance. Protecting our farmers will remain a top priority as we continue to engage on the next iteration of CAP.”
“We want Irish agriculture to be a world leader in innovation, sustainability and value, ensuring that our farmers and their families can thrive for generations to come. Strengthening farm incomes is an absolute priority, with 130,000 family farms across the country. We will continue to support vital sectors such as suckler, beef, dairy, sheep, pig, poultry, tillage, horticulture and organics. Equally, we will protect and expand vital farm schemes that ensure these sectors remain strong and resilient. We understand that the challenges facing our farmers are complex, but we are committed to supporting them through every policy lever available. We will ensure essential farm payments are protected and, wherever possible, expanded to meet the evolving needs of our farming communities.”
“I wish the Minister well in his role. I welcome this discussion on Ireland's national plan under the Common Agricultural Policy and its implications for our agrifood sector. The agrifood sector remains the backbone of our economy, comprising 173,000 jobs and accounting for 10% of Irish exports. This sector is not only critical to our economy but also central to our rural communities, where our farmers are the social, economic and cultural pillars. Our farmers are world-class food producers and their dedication to excellence is a testament to the strength of Irish agriculture. Fianna Fáil is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring a thriving agricultural and agrifood sector.”
“If there is a way of enabling councillors or any public representative to be more efficient, it should be explored and funded. As I said, it is a great resource. As politicians, we may differ in our beliefs but I would like to think our core value is the same - the betterment of our society. I am still in contact with my local community. It would be unjust if I was not. Access to this kind of platform is beneficial for representatives - not only councillors but also TDs and Senators - to ensure the best possible service to our communities. The role of a councillor is demanding. I acknowledge the hard work they carry out daily and call on the Minister to consider funding such a programme for all local authorities.”
“I raise the issue of the tools available to councillors to enable them to effectively represent and advocate for their communities. South Dublin County Council has an online system called Membersnet. It allows public representatives - TDs and Senators can also use it - to put in queries and advocate for the people who need their assistance. This is an effective way for public representatives to communicate with the local authority and keep track of their queries. I was surprised to learn that not all local authorities have such a platform. During my time as a councillor, I found this an invaluable tool. I urge the Minister to roll it out to other local authorities, perhaps looking to South Dublin County Council as a benchmark of how this should work. The role of a councillor is a busy, demanding role.”
“It can be difficult - I know from personal experience - to contain a dementia patient while waiting in a cubicle in a busy emergency department. It is traumatising. I could speak on this motion for hours, but I will conclude by saying I wholeheartedly support it and look forward to seeing further improvements in the provision of services for older people.”
“In terms of dementia care, I welcome the call for increased funding and supports, particularly for carers. Access to day care centres is often a lifeline for carers who may be looking after someone requiring 24-hour care and who frequently experience poor sleep patterns. The journey for carers can be isolating, tiring and lonely. We need to ensure they receive the support they need as well. I will address an issue regarding patients with dementia or Alzheimer's disease when they present at accident and emergency departments. They should be seen and treated without delay. Long waits in accident and emergency services are difficult for anyone, but for dementia patients and their carers they can be an agonising and distressing experience. This needs urgent attention.”
“In Tallaght, for example, we have several of these successful developments, namely, Maplewood, Fernwood, Old Bawn and Sean Walsh Park, all of which have enriched the surrounding communities. On housing, when building new homes, adequate consideration must be given at design stage to ensure that, structurally, homes being built will be suitable for people as they age and their needs change. Our population is living longer. The care and repair service is another excellent initiative and one I would like to see expanded. I had the opportunity to spend a day with a care and repair team and I was impressed by the genuine care they showed in completing small tasks which, left undone, can cause stress to older people. This service is another that I often recommend to my constituents.”
“What started as a pilot scheme a few years ago has now become an initiative that I wholeheartedly support. Many of my elderly constituents have benefited from this scheme. I can honestly say it has been one of the most successful initiatives I have witnessed since being elected. The service provides valuable advice and support. I highly recommend that anyone over the age of 66 take advantage of a session with one of the co-ordinators. I will happily refer anyone their way. Another initiative I am proud to highlight is the age friendly housing scheme. Watching these developments populate my constituency has been a great experience. These homes enable people to live comfortably and independently in their communities.”
“I also feel strongly about how the shift of vital services such as banking and Revenue to predominantly online platforms has left many independent, capable older people prematurely dependent on others. These individuals are now forced to rely on others for tasks they could once handle themselves in person. This is an issue I am deeply passionate about. We need to provide more in-person options for those who prefer or require them. That said, I acknowledge that, during the previous Government term, important steps were made in the right direction to address the needs of older people. I was pleased to see a focus on this issue and hope to see the momentum continue. I will take a moment to compliment healthy age friendly homes co-ordinators in South Dublin County Council.”
“I welcome the debate and support the motion. We can build on the positive steps taken by the Government in the previous term, particularly in focusing on the needs and care of older people. This is a subject close to my heart. Care and respect for older people are things that truly drive me as a politician. Some of my dearest friends in recent years have been my elderly constituents and their experiences have shaped my perspective. For far too long, the needs of older people in our society were not given the proper focus they deserved. The years pass quickly and sooner than we realise we will either be the beneficiaries or the victims of decisions made regarding our ageing population.”
“As someone who has faced a serious illness that predominantly affects women, I want to share a piece of advice with you all. You only get one body. Mind it, know it and take care of it. Do not be embarrassed or shy about going to your GP if you notice that something is wrong. If you feel something is off and you are not being listened to, speak louder. Shout, if necessary. Never ever be afraid to seek a second opinion. Your health is too important to ignore. We will continue to speak out, to advocate for the women who are often overlooked and to demand a healthcare system that serves us all equally and fairly.”
“Lowering the age for free breast cancer screening and improving diagnostic services for young women presenting with signs of breast cancer is something I will fight for and I will not stop until we achieve it. I do not want any more women in their 20s and 30s being diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer because they had to wait for months on end for a simple scan, giving cancer the time to progress to a terminal illness. Every woman, regardless of her age, deserves timely and accurate diagnosis because early detection saves lives. Women are no longer silent. We are standing together demanding the changes we deserve and we will not settle for anything less. We also know that the work is not finished. Too many women have been let down by the lack of education, screening and diagnostic services and that must change.”
“In the previous Dáil term, under the former Minister, Stephen Donnelly, significant steps were taken towards improving women's healthcare. The introduction of the first ever women's health action plan, the delivery of essential services such as menopause clinics, free contraception, fertility hubs, same-day see and treat gynaecology clinics, specialist endometriosis centres and postnatal hubs. These are incredibly important steps, but they are just the beginning. More is needed and we must keep pushing for further improvements. One area I am particularly passionate about is breast cancer care. I welcome the recent standardisation of access to post-mastectomy and hair loss products.”
“For example, menopause was simply referred to as "the change" for generations, a term that barely captured the emotional and physical toll it takes on a woman. Many women suffered through this difficult phase of life without understanding what was happening to their bodies, without any resources and without anyone to talk to. They often felt alone, isolated and uncertain. Thankfully, things are changing. Conversations are happening. There is more information available now and the stigma is slowly being erased. The introduction of menopause hubs is a positive step, but we need more of these initiatives. We need to continue to ensure that women have the support and care they deserve during this stage of life.”
“I thank the Minister for coming to the House. In the week that we celebrate International Women's Day, I am glad to say that we are witnessing a shift. Women are rising up and finding their voices, and no longer accept a substandard approach to their healthcare. We are demanding and achieving better services and care. Above all, we are demanding to be heard when it comes to our health. For far too long, certain aspects of women's health were not discussed openly. This may have been due to embarrassment or an ingrained belief that such issues were private matters, topics to be whispered about or not spoken of at all. The more we speak out, though, the more we push back against the circle of silence and break the silence.”
“He was told he would have a ten-year wait. Anybody who has ever had a toothache knows that is wholly unacceptable. He did subsequently get an appointment. However, it is a huge shortcoming. Delays in the dental health of our children are simply unacceptable. I call on the Minister to come in for a debate on dental health services for our children.”
“I will speak about concerning wait times for dental health appointments for children. It was discussed quite a bit yesterday in the other House. Kids' dental health is very important, keeping our children mindful of good oral hygiene and, equally, any work that needs to be done to their teeth. I have spoken to people in my constituency of Dublin South-West whose children have had to wait unacceptably long times for routine examinations and simple treatments such as seals done to their teeth. An example is children between the ages of eight and 12 who should be getting this done now are told they must wait until they are 13 or 14 years of age. On my way to work today, there was a man on the radio discussing delays for dental treatment for his child who has autism. The child presented with excruciating pain and would not take medication.”
“St. Patrick's Day is fast approaching and, after six years, my community of Tallaght will see its parade return. My community is often portrayed in a negative manner. The absence of a St. Patrick's Day parade in the area for the six years since 2019 was very much evident in the hearts of all the people of Tallaght. South Dublin County Council recognised the need to have a parade and, in conjunction with local groups, organisations and sports clubs, it is due to make a return this year. I have many fond memories of taking part in the parade with my local GAA club as a child. It is a vital day to bring our community together and to showcase and uplift it. I call on the Minister to release funds centrally to support such vital community initiatives. All too often, we focus on the negative.”
“The key message we hear in every conversation about breast cancer is “Early detection saves lives”. Breast checks should be extended to women from the age of 40, and I want change for women in their 20s and 30s in how they are dealt with when they present with breast cancer signs. I have lived through the illness. I know how frightening it is to find a lump, and I know I am very lucky to be here today. I will not stop advocating until young women no longer feel dismissed, their concerns are taken seriously and they get the care and attention they deserve when they present with symptoms of breast cancer. I request that the Leader invite the Minister for Health in to have a debate on cancer services.”
“My GP referred me to St. James's Hospital to err on the side of caution but he was not concerned because of my age. At that time other women in my community of Tallaght were being diagnosed with breast cancer, including my dear friend Fiona aged 37 who was referred quickly because we had the same GP who knew the importance of referring a young girl on. I think of Fiona today. Tomorrow is her second anniversary. Nicola, aged 28, had two lumps. She was dismissed as having a cyst or a blocked milk duct. She insisted on her referral and six weeks later was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. There are approximately 3,700 new cases of breast cancer annually in Ireland, with 23% of these cases diagnosed in women between 20 and 50 years of age. The number of younger women being diagnosed is increasing.”
“I would like to speak about breast cancer screening and symptomatic breast cancer services for younger women. There is a rise in younger women being diagnosed with breast cancer and we need to move with the times when dealing with this. Last week, on 4 February, we marked World Cancer Day. This year, the story of a young woman, Ziva Cussen, was covered in the media. She went to her GP with a lump on her breast and at times was reassured there was nothing to worry about. It took six months for a scan to take place. At that point Ziva's cancer had spread to her bones and she had a stage 4 cancer diagnosis. Ziva's case is not an isolated incident of a young woman presenting with a symptom of breast cancer and not being scanned in a timely manner. At 36, I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer after presenting with a lump.”
“It is really important that we are all entitled to our opinions and beliefs. Going forward, I will stand very strongly on mine. I thank you all and I forward to working with you.”
“I congratulate the Cathaoirleach on his election. I am sure he will do a fine job. I was not going to speak, but as my son is sitting in the Gallery I decided it would be a missed opportunity not to acknowledge him and my very close family friend Frank. Unfortunately, my father and mother cannot be here today as my father is extremely unwell, but I know he would be so proud of me. A degree did not get me here today. I come from Tallaght, similar to Senator Ruane, and it was hard work and dedication to my community and the support of my community of Tallaght as well as family and friends that got me here today. I certainly will not be letting them down. I will treat everybody in here with respect and I expect the same in return. I do not believe in telling people how to think.”