Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I mark the passing of the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill in the House last night and which legislation is now going to Áras an Uachtaráin. I made a speech last night during which I forgot to thank a number of people. I take this opportunity to mention their names. One is Ms Kathryn Reilly who worked on the Bill. She is a former Senator and did a great deal of work on the legislation. I thank also Aengus Ó Maoláin who works with the Civil Engagement group and did a phenomenal amount of work on the Bill. I thank the Leader, Senator Buttimer, for his work, in particular as previous chair of the alcohol committee. It is important to thank people, and I do not like to forget to do it. This is historic legislation which will change many lives and save many lives. There are many people in the RISE Foundation who are very happy.

I did not get a chance earlier in the week to express my condolences to the family of Emma Mhic Mhathúna this week. She was a beautiful woman and I met her a few months ago. She was a stunningly beautiful person and almost a warrior in a sense. She was a wonderful mother and represented many of the amazing women who are going through tough times today. I express my condolences to her lovely children and to her family in general.