Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I congratulate Senator Leyden on his daughter's re-election and echo his comments on the North, as we have discussed. Senator Craughwell mentioned councillors' pay and supports and we are all ad idemthat there is a need for a real examination, which is being done now by Ms Sara Moorhead, who is carrying out an independent review. The report is imminent and the Minister has received the report. As Senator Leyden said, it is correct that bravery has been demonstrated by all of us in recognising again the role of the elected councillor. It is not because we are all Members of the Seanad and seeking votes from councillors but it is now becoming more of a full-time job. Senator Craughwell failed to recognise the measures taken to improve the supports given to councillors in his contribution. He can shrug if he wants.There have been changes and there will be more. I will not prolong the Order of Business by going through them all again. Changes have been made and we will have the debate again.

Senator Lawlor made a very positive contribution. I agree with him that, as part of the new local government structure, elected members should put in place a strategic policy committee or SPC for climate change and climate action. The Senator is right and we should advocate for such an SPC in every council. We have a Joint Committee on Climate Action in the Oireachtas and it would be fitting to have a climate action and climate change SPC at local authority level.

Senator Devine raised the report of the Ombudsman for Children. I will be happy to have the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs come to the House to discuss the matter. I cannot say more on the matter as I have not read the report.

Senator Mulherin mentioned the challenging times faced by retailers versus online selling and I am happy to invite the Minister to the House. It is worrying to see the closure of so many chain stores and businesses in large towns and cities. We will debate the matter.

Senator Black mentioned this journey. That is included as part of the whole issue of local authorities. Senator Paddy Burke also referenced these matters.