John Dolan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

As Senator Ardagh said, it is World Asthma Day.We have a great and a growing understanding of the importance of clean water, but equally as important is the quality of the air we breathe. This has huge implications for thousands of people with asthma. A small number of people pass away each year because of the effects of asthma but the great majority can live. What is important for them is that we protect the quality of our air both internally and externally.

It is important this morning to mention our two new Senators, Senators Lawlor and Marshall. In terms of agriculture, that brings me to the two letters - AI - but we will say no more about that. On behalf of the Civil Engagement group, I am very happy to welcome both Senators to the House. They are on the agricultural panel. The only thing I would say to them about an issue close to my heart is that agriculture, agrifood and all those issues are also part of rural Ireland and rural development. Looking over the farm gate into the farm is one activity. Looking from the other side out into the rural community is the other side of it. Certainly in the Republic of Ireland, there are more people with disabilities in rural Ireland than there are farm families so there are issues about social exclusion. There are many elderly farmers who are often single men who face issues like loneliness and mental health difficulties. There are issues around agriculture that are not purely agricultural. It is important to keep those in the story as it unfolds.

I note the Seanad motion before us today that seeks to alter Standing Order 74 to some extent. This is something in which I was involved to make sure that three Oireachtas committees could meet regarding a shared interest in people with disabilities. Whatever about new politics, it is important that we find reformed ways of working. I was surprised to find that there was no way without this device that more than two Oireachtas committees could meet to discuss a subject. With regard to the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities, joined-up efforts of a range of committees and Departments will be increasingly required.