Lynn Ruane (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I join with others in expressing my sadness and condolences to the families of Annmarie O'Brien and that of the young children who lost their lives in Clondalkin. I also wish to acknowledge the death yesterday of a young activist who was heavily involved with the unions. No matter what picket line one visited he was sure to be there supporting fellow workers. His name was Joe McGouran. I send my condolences to his family and friends. He was a well known street seller in Dublin 1 and I am sure that community will miss him greatly.

I applaud the organisers of yesterday's marches called Strike 4 Repeal and March for Repeal. It has been estimated that 15,000 people took to the streets yesterday to campaign for the repeal of the eight amendment. The sight of so many people, especially young women, marching for a woman's right to bodily autonomy should show the members of these Houses that the issue has not gone away, that the people of Ireland want a referendum and repeal of the eight amendment but definitely not for the amendment to be replaced in the Constitution.

I wish to acknowledge the announcement yesterday whereby 44 women were nominated for the Irish Film & Television Academy, IFTA, awards. I wish to acknowledge the short film written by Emmet Kirwan that is very much about women's rights. The short film stars my daughter and was nominated by IFTA for the category of best short film. The message in the film was that we all should stand in awe of all mná. The sight yesterday on the streets of Dublin shows that people are ready and willing to stand up for the rights of women.