Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I share the sentiments expressed by Senator Ó Ríordáin on the issues in Oughterard and the language people use. Ours is an island nation of welcome. Many of our people have travelled across the world and we accept and welcome people here as a safe harbour. Direct provision has been in place for more than 20 years and all of us understand the frustrations with it and the need to change the system. As politicians, however, we have a duty of care in how we represent and what we say. Inflammatory language must be condemned out of hand. Equally, there is a job to be done by the Government and State agencies to engage with people in any planning, be it for direct provision, health or whatever. There is a need for proper consultation. However, the language used in Oughterard is unhelpful. We should all be mindful of what we say. We all live in the community and are of the community. People are coming to this country for a variety of reasons, be it fear of persecution or for reasons to do with race, religion and political opinion. I welcome people to my offices every day, regardless of where they are from or who they are.

I will not accept the amendment proposed by Senator Higgins. The Wildlife (Amendment) Bill 2016 has been before the House for a long time and it must be progressed.

I am happy to accept Senator Feighan's proposed amendment to the Order of Business.