Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Senator also referred to the number of people CRH employs in the US and the major contribution it makes there.

Senator Tim Lombard raised the US election regarding the lack of legislation Irish Coast Guard service. I will convey his concerns to the Minister. It might be appropriate to table a Commencement Matter and have the Minister come before us in order to try to expedite the issue.

Senator Keith Swanick raised the concerns about the anti-migrant sentiment. He also referred to FIFA. I have no difficulty speaking to the Leader and asking him to deal with the matter. I will convey the concerns FIFA had regarding the logo on the Ireland jerseys. The Leader might be the person to deal with that matter. The Senator said one out of four doctors in the UK is of non-UK origin. In Ireland, 38% of our doctors are non-Irish graduates and we need to be conscious of the contribution they are making to our health service.

Senator Norris raised concerns about the National Museum and the Cathaoirleach dealt with the matter. I will pass the Senator's concerns on to the Leader and ask the latter to revert to him.

Senator Kieran O'Donnell referred to the US election and the fact that the Vice President-elect is Irish American. It is important that we send our congratulations to the Vice President-elect on the role he will play in the next four years and wish him well.

Senator Boyhan referred to the maritime and foreshore Bill. I will raise the matter with the Minister. A Commencement matter might be an appropriate way to bring it forward and get the Minister in to give the Senator some idea on the issue. I am not passing the buck.

Senator Davitt raised the very important issue of serial objectors. A major development in the midlands - I will not mention it by name - has gone beyond An Bord Pleanála. The Senator raised a very serious concern, especially regarding young people. I was recently approached about a similar case involving a young couple who want to build a house on an outlying farm but whose plan has been objected to by somebody from outside the area. This is a major concern, particularly when it is so expensive to build new homes. Families can contribute by giving sites to their children or whomever. This is being restricted as a result of planning objections and uncertainty.