Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I second Senator Darragh O'Brien's proposed amendment to the Order of Business. I ask the Leader to facilitate, as early as possible in the next session of this House, while it still is in existence, a debate on the subject of rural Ireland and rural affairs. I am concerned there appear to be attempts, both historically and at an accelerated rate on the part of the present Administration, to show prejudice to rural Ireland through the closure of Garda stations or small schools, two of which in my locality have been closed during the summer holidays, cutbacks in home helps and so on. In particular, I believe a debate on all these issues would be justified. Some effort should be made in order that in future, legislation should be rural-proofed to ensure that rural Ireland is not being deprived further. My colleague, Senator O'Neill, mentioned the difficulties facing farmers and I note fishermen also are experiencing difficulties in fishing. As so many restrictions have been placed on them, they no longer are in a position to fish. Consequently, such a debate is absolutely necessary and I ask the Leader to give this subject priority during the next term.

I suggested a matter on the Adjournment yesterday regarding the withdrawal of a bus service to one of the finest beaches in County Cork, namely, Garretstown, the Old Head of Kinsale and the village of Ballinspittle for no reason. Completely without notice or consultation with the local people, this bus route, serving Cork, Kinsale and these beautiful areas was withdrawn. The Minister responsible should come to this House to explain the reason this service was withdrawn unilaterally without any discussion. Given the weather we are having at present, this bus to Garretstown, one of the finest beaches in Cork, would be overflowing each day with visitors to the beach. I will go further, although I am loath to be parochial, by proposing an amendment to the Order of Business that the Minister responsible, Deputy Varadkar, should come into this House today to give me an explanation for the valid point I have raised concerning another deprivation of rural Ireland of rights and obligations by the Government.