Catherine Noone (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Given that the matter relates to a particular individual, perhaps the Senator will raise it as a Commencement motion in order to get a satisfactory direct response from the Minster.

Senator Feighan raised the important issue of smuggling, some of which was news to me. An information campaign would be a very good idea and I hope it would be feasible. I commend the Senator on raising the issue.

I completely agree with Senators Paul Daly and Reilly that we should come down hard on individuals who choose to park in spaces reserved for charging electric vehicles. Such behaviour is very irritating for people who need to recharge their car battery, especially as we are trying to encourage the use of electric vehicles. It is more challenging to use electric vehicles than other vehicles and every measure should be put in place to encourage their use. This issue should be considered in the context of a debate on the environment or as a Commencement matter. It is certainly a valid issue and one on which most Senators would agree with Senators Daly and Reilly.

Senator Marshall raised the important report on the future of the beef sector, which has been facilitated by Members of this House who sit on the agriculture committee. We all want a sustainable beef sector and I commend colleagues on the report.

Senator Mulherin commended the Houses of the Oireachtas on the food event held here last week. I was unable to attend but there was much positive feedback from the event, if Senators will pardon the pun. I am sure the Mayo Mountain Blackface Sheep Breeders will go from strength to strength and the event rightly highlighted the group's great achievements.

Senator Colm Burke spoke about the strike by HSE workers and made many of the points I have already alluded to.

Senator Norris highlighted the new LGBT committee. What is the correct name for the group?