Keith Swanick (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We have all been enjoying the unprecedented good weather recently. I want to mention the unsung heroes who once again keep us safe on a day-to-day basis. Just as it was during the bad weather we witnessed some months ago, the emergency services have been handling several weather-related crises of late. The fire services are dealing with unprecedented gorse and grass fires. The Irish Coast Guard is being called on multiple times each day as those swimming in the sea get into difficulties. The health services are dealing with people who have suffered bad sunburn and heatstroke. There are more cyclists and motorcyclists on the roads, which ensures that our first responders are kept busy.

Last week, I was contacted by the Irish Water Safety informing me that the lifeguard station at Claycastle Beach in Youghal – I imagine the Leader is familiar with this – was broken into and lifesaving equipment was stolen. The station was vandalised and sprayed with fire extinguishers. Lifeguards up and down the country are exceptionally busy. They are under immense pressure with the good weather and now they have to contend with thugs who would seek to destroy this vital equipment that is needed to save lives. I call on the Leader to convey to the Minister for Justice and Equality the need to look after these people as they look after us. I would like an update on when the Life Saving Equipment Bill will proceed to Committee Stage. As we know, there has been great cross-party support for the Bill. It would be great to see it back before the House soon.