Frank Feighan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There is some depressing news coming out of Brussels this morning. Michel Barnier has said he does not intend to recommend to the EU leaders that the talks should move on to trade issues next week. This is a huge kick in the teeth for the island of Ireland. Mr. Barnier has also said the EU will not make concessions on the peace process, which is very welcome. Once again, we are sleepwalking our way into a very dangerous situation for this island. As I have said previously, the British electorate shot themselves in our foot. They never thought about the Border or the issues on the island of Ireland. This is the Achilles heel that will make Brexit simply unworkable. We are in a very dangerous situation again because the electorate will blame the EU and the fight will never be what the fight is about. We are in a very dangerous situation. I appreciate that there is a debate after lunch. This morning's news is very worrying and disturbing.

I would like to call for a debate on another issue. I am the father of a child who was born 11 months ago. When she was very young, she had reflux and she did not sleep, so we brought in a sleep trainer. I did not realise what a sleep trainer was, but as a result of her work our young child is now sleeping from 7.30 p.m. until 7.30 a.m. Her mother and I are delighted. This episode made me realise that many people who are affected by simple little issues are asking where to get facilities like this and are anxious to contact people who can help them. I understand that many people are providing these services on Skype. The difference that has been made by the sleep trainer who came into our house for two days has been incredible. Our baby is sleeping and everyone is very happy. Maybe we should invite the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs or the Minister for Health to come to the House to discuss this issue, perhaps with a view to establishing a helpline for parents to ring or something like that. I never thought I would be standing up in the Seanad saying that this was one the best things ever to happen to me. Many parents, especially mothers, do not realise that assistance is available. Perhaps we could call for a debate, during which the Minister could outline the position in this regard. I appreciate that there are many more important things in the health budget, but maybe this is something we could look at. I do not think there is enough awareness of a facility and resource that could be very helpful for the mothers and fathers of young children.