Ruairi Ó Murchú (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am really delighted to speak today in recognition of International Women's Day. At the minute, Lieutenant General Jibril Rajoub, president of the Palestinian Football Association, is meeting with the sports committee. We should recognise the Bohemians Football Club women's team who are going to play the Palestinian women's team. That is very important given the really brutal circumstances of the Israeli slaughter that is ongoing on the people of Gaza at this point. I want to congratulate soccer trailblazer and Dundalk native, Ms Paula Gorham, who is going to be grand marshal in the St. Patrick's Day parade in Dundalk. That is following on from world beaters, boxer Amy Broadhurst and track and field athlete Kate O'Connor, who were grand marshals last year. I would like to recognise all those people.

I thank Ms Alison McCabe not only for the work she does and support she provides to women who have been through breast cancer, but for the campaign in which she was instrumental. The issue of post-mastectomy products was not only raised here but also on "Liveline", and there was a reversal regarding the policy of cutting funding. She brought up other issues that relate to the scheme, which I also brought to the Taoiseach and the Minister, Deputy Donnelly. I would like to think they will be dealt with.

Throughout the period of Covid-19, we obviously had a number of tragedies, none more than in Dealgan House. I thank those families and particularly the women, a huge number of whom did right by their loved ones who died in particular circumstances and sought answers and justice for them. I commend them on their ongoing struggles.

I also want to thank the personal assistants who do huge work in further education colleges, particularly those I have dealt with in counties Louth, Meath, Cavan and beyond. There was an increase in their pay rate, but what they really need is a sustainable contract that does right by the work they do and the work they do for others.

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