Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I think we will head for the end line. Senator Byrne rightly welcomed the extra special needs assistants, SNAs, for Limerick. I commend her on her advocacy on behalf of Limerick. She is a very strong voice. It is good that more SNAs are being employed, particularly in the Limerick area. I join with Senator Byrne in calling on the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport with regard to airports. We must understand the importance of Shannon and Cork in our aviation policy. We should not just put the emphasis on Dublin even though it is important and a hub. The points made by Senator Byrne are very pertinent and valid in terms of the overarching policy of aviation in our country.

Senator Leyden made reference to Roscommon. I am not familiar with the details of the case about which he spoke but it is important that arbitration continues and that talking takes place. I know he made the point about Kieran Mulvey, an esteemed public servant who has done a huge amount of work in the country. His suggestion is one that could be taken up.

I join with Senators Warfield and Bacik in wishing everybody a happy Dublin Pride this weekend. It is an important visible sign of our diverse, inclusive and welcoming nation and capital city. I hope all those who participate in it enjoy themselves, do so safely and, again, hang out their brightest colours. It is certainly an event I hope will happen with good weather.I join with Senator Warfield in welcoming the publication tomorrow of the national youth strategy and commend the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Zappone. I commend also Ms Una Mulally on the work she has done on the drafting of the report and in the consultative process which ends tomorrow with the publication of the report. It is important work involving a wide range of stakeholders and people. I agree with the Senator on conversion therapy and I commend him on the work he is doing in regard to that. I hope the report will be positive in that regard. It is the first LGBT strategy to be published and it is important and welcome. It is being launched in association with Dublin Pride which will hopefully send the right message.

Senators Bacik and Humphreys raised the Judicial Appointments Commission Bill and Dublin Pride.

If Senator Devine is happy to wait until next Tuesday, I would be happy to take her motion then. She can move it then.