Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That is what democracy is about. It is about allowing people to exercise democracy by casting their votes. On Senator Bacik's point, I look forward to having the debate on housing and to reaffirming the Government's commitment under the action plan for housing, Rebuilding Ireland. We will have a debate with the Minister, Deputy Ross, on the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill today. We will have further debate on the matter in the autumn.

Senator Byrne raised the issue of St. John's Hospital in Limerick and the very disappointing news that it was temporarily closed yesterday. The Senator is right to highlight the issue. It is annoying to see a hospital accident and emergency department closed for any reason. That issue should be worked on by management on the ground. I join with the Senator in welcoming the Creative Ireland fund. Senator Byrne has become a very strong advocate for Troy Studios in Limerick. She is right to highlight its wonderful work. It is a beneficiary of Creative Ireland and it is of benefit to the region.

Senators Horkan, Davitt, McDowell and Craughwell all raised the issue of the Judicial Appointments Commission Bill 2017 and the matter of a sos. I am not saying the case was otherwise, but the business of the Seanad and the business put forward by the Government or by private Members takes precedence over any other business. That is the priority. We do not take a break for committee meetings or other events around the House.