Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I give a commitment on that. Senators Daly, Richmond and Feighan mentioned An Garda Síochána. It is important we support members of An Garda and front-line emergency workers, including those of the fire brigade and ambulance service, when it comes to stress. We can have a debate on that with the appropriate Minister.

Senator Lawless raised the outcome of the referendum. I join him in commending all those people who travelled home to vote, no matter what side on which they voted. It is important for us to recognise that many young people are today exercised by issues rather than party politics. For all involved with the world of politics, there will be an exercise to engage and see how we can continue to gain that attention and work with young people. All of us recognise the importance of the home to vote movement. I agree with the Senator and I am thankful that emigration is temporary today. We benefit greatly from people returning home to work. It is about further enhancing participation in democracy.

I agree with Senator Conway-Walsh on the matter of home help. It is unbelievable that we have a delay in home help hours being allocated to people. I could wallpaper my desk, as I am sure the Senator can, with correspondence from people who are waiting. It is unacceptable. There has been an increase in the budget and we speak of keeping people at home living in the community. We need to see that working effectively with the allocation of hours. I do not agree with the Senator's remarks on the rainy day fund. We had the debate last week and we will not open it again now. I welcome today's rally with regard to the cervical cancer issue and I thank the people for organising it. However, it is important that all the necessary supports and information continue to be given to the women and families affected by this. The Government is committed to this.

Senators Norris, Gallagher, Leyden and Mac Lochlainn raised the matters arising from last night's "Prime Time" programme and the death of Mr. Shane O'Farrell. I did not see the programme. I know Ms Lucia O'Farrell is in the House today. There is a huge sense of grief and understandable anger being felt by the O'Farrell family and no words of mine or any other Members in the House today will ease the pain. It is important to note the tragic loss of life - Senator Mac Lochlainn eloquently disclosed to the House the nature of the incident and the perpetrator - and none of us condones that sort of behaviour. The Senator is correct that there is only place for that type of person, which is behind bars. In saying that there is a need for the family to have closure and answers. I support any call to get those answers. The Senators mentioned the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, GSOC, inquiry. I am not sure if the findings have been published but I hope they will be.