Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Before I became a Member of the Seanad a couple of months ago, I thought that I had a bumpy ride when I got on the Cú Chulainn roller coaster at Tayto Park. I have had a bumpier ride since I came in here a few weeks ago. The cervical cancer crisis overseen by the previous Government continues. It has been compounded by the recent tragic death of Ruth Morrissey. Cervical checks are due to restart soon but breast and bowel cancer screening will not resume until September. The people of Ireland did not stop getting sick during the slowdown in the provision of general healthcare. In that context, I am calling on the Government to do better.

A recent HIQA report shows that almost 60% of nursing homes inspected after Covid-19 may have had more severe outbreaks because of weak governance and management. What action has the Government taken to improve the governance and management? I am calling on the Government to do better.

It is sad to see that it took action from our Senators yesterday to deliver an answer for those living in direct provision in the Skellig Star Hotel. I am calling on the Government to do better for those in direct provision.

The Government is miles away from where it ought to be on other issues. The fiasco surrounding data protection for citizens of our State is nothing short of criminal. If it is not alleged Garda leaks to media sources or gangland criminals, it is data collected when people leave the State. The Government must do better.

Towns and villages have been touched by the closure of businesses and loss of jobs as a result of Covid-19. Cities and towns continue to suffer because of flooding and I think particularly about Kenmare in that regard. I am asking the Government to do better.

It is all very well coming into this House day after day but, ultimately, Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party hold the power to effect change. I am trusting that there is more than enough talent and capability among those parties to take on these challenges and I am holding them accountable. The Oireachtas is heading into summer recess and I can only hope that the rest will replenish the spirits of the members of the Government so that it can return with a different attitude. The people of Ireland demand and deserve more. We are watching the Government and I ask it to do better.

I also thank the staff who have shown amazing kindness to me since I came into this House in April. I appreciate that and thank them for making me feel welcome.