Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I personally very strongly support it, and there is a consultation process under way, led by the Department of Justice and Equality, to develop a new Traveller and Roma inclusion strategy. I very much hope the recognition of Traveller will be achieved in the context of the development of the strategy. The justice committee has done a great deal of work on it and I urge any colleagues with an interest in it to read the report of the committee which achieved unanimous, cross-party support.

Senator White referred to the Finance Bill and support for start-ups, and we might seek a debate on it in the future. The Cathaoirleach intervened on this point. Senator Ó Clochartaigh referred to the trafficking allegations, on which I have already spoken, and he noted that there are concerns about trafficking and exploitation in other sectors, which is undoubtedly the case. The Migrant Rights Centre has done much work on it. Senator Walsh also raised the issue and referred to other sectors. The Migrant Rights Centre has concerns about other industries, particularly the domestic care industry, and we can seek a debate on it more generally. However, a specific concern arises from the report that has been conducted into the fishing industry, and we might seek a specific debate on it. Senator Ó Clochartaigh also spoke on Traveller ethnicity, which I have dealt with, and on funding for fighting rural crime and the issue it poses in Galway. The justice committee had a hearing on it with Muintir na Tíre, whose representatives expressed great support for Operation Thor and the work they hope will be carried out as part of it to combat rural crime.

Senator Ó Domhnaill referred to Bank of Ireland, and we all very much welcome the bank's change of heart that followed the heavy criticism it received yesterday from Members of both Houses, other groups and members of the public. I agree with the Senator's comments on the banks generally. It shows public pressure can have an impact, which is important. Senator Ó Domhnaill also supported the calls for debates following the RTE "Prime Time" programme on a Brexit. I have already responded to Senator Walsh on human trafficking. Senator Bradford supported Senator Quinn on fracking, again showing the difference of view, and spoke on the "Prime Time" poll. Senator Healy Eames referred to the accident and emergency crisis and we can seek a debate on health care, although I note, as every commentator has, that it is not a recent issue. Unfortunately, it has been a major problem within the health care system through the boom years and following the recession. I will seek a debate on it.