Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I join Senator Feighan on the need to remember those whose lives were lost in the atrocity at Srebrenica. We should always remind ourselves that nation states around the world must be vigilant in upholding people's right to practise different faiths. I commend the Senator on raising the matter and thank him for calling on us to remember those who died.

Senator Humphreys mentioned the important issue of home care packages. I agree that there is an issue locally and nationally. We will debate the matter with the Minister. The housing units in Poolbeg should also be addressed.

I have already addressed the issue raised by Senator Davitt.

Senators Colm Burke and Warfield discussed the HPV vaccine and the fact there is a need for us to advertise and promote the benefits of vaccination. Vaccination works, and we must reach the figure of 75%. I agree with Senator Warfield that, while people had the right to protest yesterday, the message they sent was wrong and out of kilter with what we are trying to achieve.

Senators Mullen and Coghlan referred to the remarks by Mr. Justice Kelly. As the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Flanagan, stated yesterday, the Government will continue to appoint members of the Judiciary. There are vacancies. Three new Court of Appeal judges and one High Court judge have already been appointed. There has been an increase in the number of appeals. Prior to the establishment of the Court of Appeal, the Supreme Court had a four-year waiting list. The Government has taken the initiative and moved three judges from the specialised Commercial Court to the Circuit Court. The Government is appointing judges and will continue to do so. The Senators can raise this matter during the debate on the Judicial Appointments Commission Bill.

Senator Gallagher referred to Mr. Justice Frank Clarke's report on the death of Sergeant Michael Galvin. The Senator is right about there being a tension between the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, GSOC, and the Garda. It will always be there, but the matters identified in the report need to be resolved. I hope that whoever can broker a resolution will do so. It needs to be done urgently.

Senator Lombard discussed Rural Link and the welcome investment by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Deputy Ring, in tackling rural isolation. It is good to see this initiative being unfurled across the country.

I join Senator Warfield in wishing Cork City every success tonight in its European endeavours.