Lisa McDonald (Fianna Fail)

I call for a debate on the important issue of a university for the south-east region. Waterford Institute of Technology is ready to become a university. Will the Leader invite the Minister for Education and Science to the Seanad to debate this matter? Approximately 40% of the workforce of my home county of Wexford is dependent on the construction industry. It is unhealthy for any area to be overly dependent on one industry. A university in the south-east would help attract new and diverse employment and would also act as a spur to raise all boats.

Yesterday, I was appointed spokesperson for justice, equality and law reform with particular emphasis on and primary responsibility for equality and law reform. In this regard, I join calls made over the past two weeks by Senators Fitzgerald and Bacik for a debate on equality to discuss issues such as the participation of women in the workforce at boardroom level and in politics. As politicians, we must take the lead in this matter. The last time I checked, we were ranked 78th in the world behind countries such as Sudan and Israel. Collectively, we should be ashamed and should address this issue. The Seanad is a perfect forum for this debate.

I congratulate the Cathaoirleach on his elevation to the role and I look forward to working with him. I am delighted to be here.