Feargal Quinn (Independent)

Senators Bacik and Mooney referred to recently deceased persons. I want to mention Mr. John McCarthy who died yesterday. I got to know him quite well through meetings in Leinster House on several occasions. He was the champion of those protecting depressed people forced to undergo electroconvulsive therapy which he himself suffered. While I may not have always agreed with him, he was a reminder of the work we have achieved through debates here on mental health.

I was delighted to hear the Leader received commitments from several Ministers to attend the Seanad in the coming weeks. I would love if the Taoiseach addressed the House too. I cannot recall if he has attended it since his election.