Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Lawless raised an important issue, which was also raised by Senator Ó Donnghaile yesterday, regarding the Thirty-ninth Amendment of the Constitution (Presidential Elections) Bill 2019. There is merit in his suggestion of a postponement or delay in the referendum. There is a need to have an in-depth, detailed discussion on the matter so we can have an informed campaign. Senator Lawless is absent because he had to attend another briefing, but I wish to pay tribute to him. I was in Chicago during the summer and met many people from the political world in the United States. The esteem in which he is held for the work he is doing is to be commended. I saw it at first hand so I pay tribute to him this morning as well.

Senator Conway-Walsh referred to the drug, sodium valproate. As Members will be aware, the European Medicines Agency has restricted its use in recent years. The Senator said it is a serious issue and I agree with her. The HSE held a conference earlier this year and has put in place a patient communication and support structure. Epilepsy Ireland is working with the HSE and a specialist paediatrician consultant has been appointed in Crumlin hospital to deal with medical diagnosis of foetal valproate syndrome, but the matter has to be addressed further. I suggest that Senator Conway-Walsh table a Commencement matter on the issue as well.

The issue raised by Senator Norris is a matter for the CPP. I will let the Cathaoirleach reply to it if he so wishes.

Senator Boyhan outlined the rationale for tabling the motion, which is understandable. I accept it and will not be opposing it.

Senator Byrne raised the issue of trolleys in University Hospital Limerick. She has been a champion in the House of the trolley situation in UHL. The Government is investing in Limerick but I would welcome a debate on why people are on trolleys. To be honest, I believe a political game is taking place at one level with regard to people on trolleys. Patients are being used in some cases so I would like to have a real debate about waiting times on trolleys in hospitals. The Senator also raised the issue of Lyric FM, which we discussed yesterday.

Senator Mac Lochlainn raised the very sensitive matter relating to Donegal. While it is an operational matter, and I appreciate the Cathaoirleach's comments, I understand the Senator's frustration and the exasperation of the residents. The joint policing committee in Donegal could be used as a means of highlighting the matter. In addition, the community safety fora, which are in Cork and I presume they are in Donegal, can be used. Residents who have legitimate concerns about anti-social behaviour, thuggery and criminality can have their voices heard and I defend the Senator's right to come to the House to lead that. However, it is an operational matter and I am not familiar with the case.

Senator Lawlor referred to the HSE's capital plan. I will be happy to invite the Minister to the House to discuss the €2 billion to be spent over three years which will provide 480 new beds and see 30 new primary care centres and 58 community nursing units built.

Senators McDowell and Black raised the Control of Economic Activity (Occupied Territories) Bill 2018. The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy Coveney, has articulated his views on the Bill in this House and the Lower House. Both Members expressed their views on the money message. I refer them to Articles 17 and 28.4 of the Constitution. I will be happy to have that debate at any time. Senator McDowell as a former Cabinet Minister and Attorney General knows well that some Members of the Houses, and I am not saying it is so in this case, put forward Private Members' Bills that impose inordinate spending on the Exchequer. It is the prerogative of the Government to expend money.