Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I understand the thinking behind allowing an extra day in our constituencies on the day following a public holiday. We have limited opportunity to address issues within the constituency and on a public holiday local authorities and public sector employees are not at work. However, Deputy Gilmore has put a compelling case, which is the critical point we must take on board. I wish to explain it is not Deputies taking an extra day, which is an unfair representation. Deputies of all parties work exceptionally hard and have responsibilities in their constituencies. We should not be afraid to make that point.

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