Feargal Quinn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I wish to correct something Senator Cullinane said earlier. While I am delighted that he will speak on my Critical Utilities (Security of Supply) Bill 2013, it is incorrect of him to suggest that it proposes to make it a criminal offence for utility workers to strike.

I was delighted to hear Senator Keane raise the issue of food waste and the efforts to reduce this in Cork, as well as the Bord Bia food bank. There are other similar efforts elsewhere and we should do everything to publicise them. The waste of food is sinful. The Crosscare agency in Dublin is doing a great job which could be repeated across the country.

Will the Leader consider a debate in the new year on human rights and older people? A policy document on this issue was launched yesterday in Dublin City Hall, based on the Seanad’s public consultation session on community health service held last year. We need to publicise how the Seanad brought this to the forefront. I know Senator White has spoken on the issue in the past. The Seanad initiated this policy document and its recommendations, which deserve much more attention. I would like to think the Seanad can continue in this regard and have a debate on the issue of human rights and older people in the new year.