Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Ardagh raised the issue of climate change and the Minister will come before the House on 7 December for a debate on the matter.

Mental health was raised by a number of Senators and as Leader of the House I take the request very seriously. I try, on Members' behalf, to facilitate debates with Ministers and since the beginning of this Seanad we have had ten cross-departmental debates and a rolling debate on Brexit. We must balance the ministerial diary with passing legislation and Private Members' time. We have already had statements on mental health in the House but I would be happy for the Minister and the Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy Helen McEntee, to come to the House to discuss this issue.

I would be happy for the Minister to come to the House to debate health, the HSE and trolleys. Senator Gavan did not mention that the Minister for Health has secured the highest budget in the past eight years and has announced a winter initiative. He is dealing with the pressure on emergency departments and I agree that we need more beds. Senator Reilly asked about the role the design of houses could have in mental health issues. I would welcome a debate on the funding for that purpose. Senators Leyden and Craughwell commented on the COSAC meeting which they attended last week and I would be happy for the Minister to come before the House to discuss it, but the Taoiseach is the lead Minister for Brexit.

Senator Boyhan asked about the judicial council Bill but that is a matter for the Minister for Justice and Equality. I suggest he raise it as a Commencement matter. Senator Noone asked about vaping, which is an important topic. Given all we have done with plain packaging for tobacco it is something we need to address further. Senator Black asked about lobbying but I do not know of anyone who is trying to dilute the Bill. I am supportive of the Public Health Bill but people are entitled to lobby. They must be registered and meetings must be recorded. I met with Musgraves, I am happy to do so and it is recorded. We should focus on how we can diminish the harm done by alcohol in society and I will work with Senators in this regard.