Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Senator Keane supported the call for a debate on climate change and giving a positive news story on a conference on energy in 2013 supported by Fáilte Ireland, a welcome and positive initiative.

Senator Walsh raised the budget, on which I have already spoken. Senator Healy Eames spoke about inviting Change Nation to discuss solutions and positive initiatives that can be taken in job creation, a call we all support.

I was not aware of Gabriel Byrne's comments about Arthur's Day but we would all share the concerns he expressed. The music element is important in this celebration and has made a contribution to cultural tourism. There is, however, a real concern over abuse of alcohol on the day itself. We will have a debate about the strategic plan for airports in the west with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport in the near future but I will raise it again with the Leader.