Ivana Bacik (Dublin Bay South, Labour) | Oireachtas source

There was considerable controversy during summer in agreeing sectoral emission targets for the agriculture sector in particular. My colleague Deputy Sherlock called on the Government to convene a citizens' assembly on the future of agriculture and food production in Ireland. Would the Taoiseach and the Government agree with such an approach? It would enable a good conversation to take place on the difficult questions in respect of how to deliver a just transition to farming communities through lowering emissions and protecting livelihoods. I am asking for the view of the Government on that proposal.

On a separate matter, I raised the issue of thalidomide with the Taoiseach two weeks ago, on Wednesday, 5 October, and he said he would respond to the Irish Thalidomide Association on a proposal within two weeks, or that was our understanding. Today marks two weeks since that commitment and the Irish Thalidomide Association has requested that I ask the Taoiseach to confirm that he will engage with it.

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