Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Comiskey complimented the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Deputy Coveney, on the fishery quotas. The Minister has done well in that regard in recent years. The Senator welcomed the increased quotas for whitefish and prawns in particular and the abolition of the policy on discards. The Senator also outlined the difficulties for businesses and farmers resulting from the floods and discussed the need for an agency to deal with the question of drainage of the Shannon, a suggestion that was addressed yesterday.

Senator Leyden complimented the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Reilly, on the Bill relating to the reasonable chastisement of children. I appreciate the Senator's comments in that regard.

Senator Moran complimented our usher, Ms Phil Donnelly, on being appointed team leader of the ushers and welcomed the passage of the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Bill through the House yesterday.

Senators Quinn and Healy Eames discussed jihadis returning to Ireland and what penalties they would face. The Senators mentioned the need for the Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act 2005 to reflect the changes that we have witnessed in recent years. I agree, and am sure that the Department of Justice and Equality and the Minister are considering proposals to change the Act to reflect the current circumstances.

Senator Zappone outlined the fact that she intended to publish a residential tenancies (amendment) Bill. I am sure that it will be debated in the new year.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh asked for time for the Prisons Bill. We have an hour for the Garda Síochána (Policing Authority and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, but I expect that will be concluded in a short period. We will run straight into the Prisons Bill and I expect there to be more time for it than indicated. Regarding both Bills, I omitted to mention Report and Fifth Stages while outlining the Order of Business.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh was supported by Senator Healy Eames regarding the difficulties with the public service obligation, PSO, licence for the ferry to the Aran Islands. I suggest that a Commencement matter be submitted for debate so that we might get an answer from the Minister.

Senator Higgins complimented those gardaí who were visiting schools to outline the dangers of online abuse. Gardaí are to be complimented on their efforts in this regard because it is a serious issue that needs to be addressed.

Senator Mooney stated that last Monday was the 60th anniversary of Ireland's membership of the UN and outlined the historical background to that.

Senators Burke and Bradford discussed house adaptation works for people with disabilities, particularly those in local authority housing. I cannot understand how any council could stand over people waiting six or seven years for these grants. The Senators are seeking greater flexibility in the funding. This year, Waterford's local authority put an extra €88,000 of its own resources into grants for disabled persons. It is unbelievable to think that it has taken six or seven years for adaptation works to be carried out. The council should examine the issue.

Senator Craughwell wished Councillor Crowley of Kildare, who was seriously injured in an accident yesterday evening, well. We would all like to join the Senator in that regard.

The Organisation of National Ex-Servicemen and Women, ONE, which is a great organisation, is concerned about the health of one of its members in Springfield House. I suggest that Senator Craughwell submit the matter for a Commencement debate tomorrow to get an answer from the Minister. I join him in complimenting the Defence Forces on their work, particularly during the recent flooding when they did a tremendous job. They continue to do so.

Senator Barrett mentioned the ESRI's report, which I am sure will be examined and acted upon by the Government.