Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I support Senator Susan O'Keeffe's request for a debate on technological universities. I am somewhat concerned that we are moving forward and trying to develop new universities while not at all being sure that the plans will lead to an improvement in society.

I also support Senator John Crown's proposed amendment to the Order of Business.

Sadly, the great Irish boxing coach Billy Walsh will leave Ireland today to move to the United States. While I would not be noted for supporting other Members, one Member, Senator Eamonn Coghlan, one of our greatest ever sportsmen, has come in for a lot of stick on social media in the past few days. I was here when he addressed the House on the issue and the speech he made was powerful and expressed everything we felt. What has happened is grossly unfair. I have tried to contact him but have been unsuccessful. With every other Senator who spoke on the issue, he spoke about the disgraceful behaviour of the IABA. His presentation was outstanding and I would like to see it recognised in the House today.