Catherine Noone (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Doris and George Finlay and the group accompanying them to the Gallery. A large group of them has come from Germany to travel around the west coast and are here today for a tour. They have positive feedback about their experience in Ireland, which to be welcomed greatly. We would like to see them return, as well as more people from that country, and we are very happy to see them here. This pertains to Senator White's point about the VAT rate. I believe the VAT rate is crucial and I completely agree with her but one must remember it was the Minister, Deputy Noonan, who introduced it without being lobbied for it. It has been hugely influential in improving the tourism industry in Ireland. An important point to make in this debate is he is acutely aware of the necessity for it to be maintained and he is trying his level best to have it maintained or at the very worst, to have it increased slightly. Consequently, it is important to mention that he introduced the reduction at a time when he was not lobbied for it and credit should be given where credit is due in that regard.

As for the Seanad, this obviously is my first time in this House. I had a conversation with Senator Mooney yesterday evening on it and he made the point that a person starting out in his or her career will have a different perspective. For me, it has been heartbreaking because I really have enjoyed my time in the Seanad. I have been hugely impressed by the level of debate and with what can actually be done here. It is not all about the headline issues. While they are important and obviously the bigger matters catch everyone's attention, only the week before last Senator van Turnhout raised the issue of child pageants in the House and the very next day, that very competition was cancelled. I refer to her efforts in this Chamber and while it may seem like a trivial matter, it is very important. Consequently, it has been heartbreaking. The campaign has been very difficult and highly personal. All Members will welcome the clarity, if nothing else, that will be brought tomorrow but one must hope that the people will deliver a resounding "No" vote.