Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I join Senator Murnane O'Connor in commending all involved in carer's week and thank carers for their important work. I commend Senator Swanick on his loneliness task force. I think responsibility in this area is under the remit of the Minister of State, Deputy Jim Daly, at the Department of Health but I am happy to be corrected if I am incorrect. It is important that we work collectively to ensure isolation, vulnerability and loneliness are reduced, no matter who they affect or where they exist. I welcome the report of the Senator's working group. We may have an opportunity to have that debate again during Private Members' time.

Senator Paddy Burke raised the issue of transport and asked for the Minister, Deputy Ross, to come to the House to discuss bus corridors and driverless cars. I would be happy to arrange that. I join Senator Gallagher in commending and congratulating independent councillor Ian McGarvey from Ramelton on his appointment as cathaoirleach at the age of 88. It certainly shows that age should not be a barrier to continuing to serve the people. I wish him well in the year ahead.

Senator Colm Burke referred to the very important issue of gynaecological services at Cork University Maternity Hospital. Commitments around the second theatre must be honoured and the theatre must be opened. The Minister met a delegation and gave a commitment. As Senator Burke said, the number on the waiting list in Cork is extraordinarily high. I would be happy to have the matter discussed in the House. Perhaps, Senator Burke and I could share a Commencement matter in that regard given that it is something in which we have both been involved. It is an important matter which needs to be addressed.

As a mark of respect, I note that Myrtle Allen has passed away. I pay tribute to her and sympathise with her family on their sad loss. She was the founder of the Ballymaloe cookery school in Cork.