Catherine Noone (Fine Gael)

I express my support for Senator Feargal Quinn. I agree with him on this issue, on which I will try to do anything I can, which is obviously not as much as those with real power.

I would like to express my concern about the flooding that occurred yesterday and last night. We saw many examples of bravery and an off-duty garda lost his life trying to save people. I am not sure exactly where it occurred, but we cannot forget that this went on just yesterday in the city.

I was disappointed to read today that the floodgates in Sandymount were left padlocked in an open position by whoever is in charge of it. I do not understand the technicalities, but this is another example of something the city council should have controlled and should not have occurred. I would like the Leader to pass on my concerns to the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government. Perhaps he could address it when he is in the House.

The newspapers do not seem to be taking my VAT watch very seriously. Newspapers have benefitted from the VAT reduction, which was intended to increase domestic consumption and tourism. This applies to newspapers, whether they like it or not.