Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

How does one follow that? I will not rant so Members should not worry. There is merit in Senator O'Sullivan's suggestion. We are in a parliamentary democracy and we represent the people who put us here, whether they are the electorate for the Lower House or councillors, among others, in the Seanad. The Parliament's groups have voting strengths according to the votes received.

I raise the matter of proprietary directors not being included in the new wage subsidy scheme. I raised this issue yesterday in discussing a Bill with the Minister of State at the Department of Finance, Deputy Fleming, and I will do so again this morning. It is a very important matter that must be addressed by the Government and a solution must be found. I am appealing to the Deputy Leader to intervene with the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. It is a very difficult time for businesses, including self-employed family directors. They are working to create and keep jobs and we must look after them. I ask the Deputy Leader to intervene on that matter.

I join everybody in thanking the staff of the Houses of the Oireachtas for their tremendous dedication, not just during the pandemic but at all times. They work irregular and unsocial hours but are always courteous, efficient, helpful and friendly. I wish all my colleagues in the House a very happy summer. Like most speakers, I suggest people come to my local area, Cork, which is the best part of the country.