Lisa Chambers (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Senator Warfield proposed an amendment to the Order of Business, that No. 12 be taken before No. 1, which was seconded by Senator Ruane. I am happy to accept that amendment. I commend the Senator on his work on that issue. Our legislation often lags behind where the world is at. This is a good piece of work that I am sure will be looked upon favourably by the relevant Minister.

Senator Malcolm Byrne welcomed the announcement by the Minister, Deputy Foley, that we will move slowly back towards normal grades in respect of dealing with grade inflation. I take on board the point that there may be students who deferred their college places, or may not have applied to the CAO, but may well apply in a number of years' time and will be competing with those on lower grades. I have no doubt the Minister is aware of this. That needs to be factored into whatever process is put in place to come back from that Covid era when grades were inflated. Covid had a long-term impact on young people in particular. Many of them missed out on 18th and 21st birthdays and graduations, which are highly significant points in people's lives that only happen once. We are still realising the full mental health impacts of that period. Young people need to be supported in their communities.

Senator Maria Byrne raised the issue of school transport. I note her comments. She thanked the McManus family for their charitable donation of the International Rugby Experience to the people of Limerick. She also raised an issue around Motorsport Ireland and the potential loss of that event to the country.

Senator McDowell proposed an amendment to the Order of Business. I will not repeat the words but I note what the amendment asked for. It was seconded by Senator Craughwell. I am not in a position to accept the amendment. The reason is the process in the House is that the draft pact will be referred to committee for consideration. Senator McDowell is a member of the Joint Committee on Justice. It is a matter for that committee and its Chair as to how its work is conducted. I suggest to committee members that they should work together in terms of-----