Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Catherine Ardagh raised an important point. I join her, on my behalf and on behalf of the House, in offering sympathy to the families of the cyclists who were killed, including in a tragedy on the streets of our capital yesterday. The safety of cyclists and those who use our roads is an issue we take very seriously. A Private Members' Bill has been published by Deputy Ciarán Cannon which provides for prohibiting passing cylists at a distance any closer than 1.5 m. It is important that we highlight this matter. Equally, it is incumbent on all those who use the roads to offer due care to cyclists and pedestrians. Any death is a tragedy and the death of three cyclists is entirely too many. I will be happy to invite the Minister to the House to debate the matter.

Senators Catherine Noone and Ray Butler raised the issue of obesity. I join them in encouraging all State agencies, particularly Departments that have a responsibility in this area, to play their role in reducing the incidence of obesity. I commend Senator Butler for his work with regard to diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is an important issue that must be addressed and I will be happy to schedule that debate in the House.

Senator Frances Black raised the matter of evictions. The Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, Deputy Damien English, came to the House last week to discuss the progress report on Rebuilding Ireland. I did not catch the reference the Senator made in terms of the evictions but my information is that the number of evictions of people from their homes is decreasing. I will invite the Minister to the House to discuss the issue of landlords and private rented accommodation. All of us are anxious that people have security of tenure in their housing.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh raised a matter regarding the Tuam mother and baby home. If he gives me the details, I will refer them to the Minister. I have been in discussions with the Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality, Deputy Stanton, with regard to the International Protection Act and direct provision. He is away this week and I hope to schedule that debate next week or during the week before the Easter recess. It is on the list. As the Senator knows, I have worked with him in the past to have issues resolved, so I am hoping to have that done either next week or the week after.

Senator Paul Coghlan referred to the very fine facility in Deer Lodge on Mill Road in Killarney. I agree it is appalling that the home is not open for the 40 patients. It might be better for the Senator to raise it as a Commencement matter, but I will take it up with the Minister. Senator Norris raised the issue of Bank of Ireland and the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign. I agree with him that there is a need for Bank of Ireland to be open and frank about the matter. I am not surprised that he was love-bombed in Trinity last night. There is a need for freedom of speech and an exchange of ideas. I would be appalled if a student organisation or group had its funding suspended because it supported a particular action. All of us who were involved in different activities in college will recognise the importance of being able to express one's views.