Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

Like Deputy Smith, I ask the Minister of State to excuse my inability to speak as Gaeilge. I welcome today's sitting, which recognises the unique challenges faced by the Gaeltacht and the islands. It may already have been mentioned - my inability to understand Irish is the same as my inability to speak it - but perhaps the committee might consider having another session where we could hear from representatives of island communities and enable a fuller discussion. I understand witnesses from other communities have attended meetings of the committee and it would be great to have the same representation for the islands.

My first question concerns what we can learn from the current situation. The pandemic has been a time to reflect and seek improvements in how the State and society operate. As part of this process, we should commend our island communities. There are several in my constituency, including on Bere Island, Sherkin Island, Heir Island, Cape Clear Island and Long Island. We have people there really pulling together and helping each other, including services providers like local supermarkets, ferries and healthcare services. However, the inherent vulnerabilities of island living have also been highlighted throughout the pandemic. An action plan for the islands is due later this year. What processes has the Department put in place to work with island communities in learning from the emergency in order to help to develop and improve that plan?