Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is good for the diversity of sport to see the weaker counties being recognised - in football anyway - although I say that with tongue in cheek.

Senator Landy raised the important issue of the horse racing industry. The Minister, Deputy Creed, is coming to the House. The Senator also mentioned the issue of child care and the Minister, Deputy Zappone, will also be coming to the House.

Senator Michelle Mulherin raised the issue of the sports capital programme, which we discussed yesterday. It is important the programme is re-established for the calendar year of 2016-17.Equally, it is important that we recognise the importance of it in terms of the benefit it brings to local communities. I do not think I would agree with the Senator in terms of the urban-rural divide. It is important that all sporting organisations benefit from the sports capital programme.

Senator Leyden referred to Charles Stewart Parnell. All I can say is that Gladstone commented that "I do not say the ablest man; I say the most remarkable and the most interesting." It is fitting that we remember him today on his anniversary.

Senator Norris raised the ongoing issue of coverage of the Seanad. I did not see "Oireachtas Report", but it is disappointing that it did not cover-----