Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I would like to raise a few issues today. First, two months after the cyber attack, why is the Department of Health using it as an excuse for not coming to this House to answer questions under Commencement matters? I am sick to death of people who are in jobs refusing to do their job. The amount of funding that the HSE receives in our annual budget does not mean that it can shirk its responsibilities. Two months is long enough. I ask the Leader to address the issue with Government Ministers immediately.

Second, I wish to raise the welcome news on the changes to the employment permits system. As of yesterday, the occupation of healthcare assistant has been removed from the ineligible occupation list within the framework. It is a welcome change, as fewer and fewer people in our country are entering this sector of the labour market. If the pandemic has taught us anything, it should be that we must encourage elderly healthcare. Many people do not know that families may claim relief on the actual costs of employing a carer.

I wish to make a point in relation to our mainstream media. The scaremongering and fear that is tripping off the tongues of reporters is unnecessary. Not only have they now effectively become the Government's spokespersons, but they have never looked for what they advertise as "the truth matters". The alternative voice of reason is rarely heard in this country. The pictures from the G7 meeting of all the leaders sitting around a conference table unmasked say a lot. Those who are leading us here have us sitting in a building costing €25,000 a day. This madness must stop. Like many of my colleagues in the Chamber, I will be vaccinated before we return to business in September. We must show confidence in our belief in vaccines. I will not be wearing a mask once I am double vaccinated. Either we believe vaccination works, or we are fooling the people. Variants will be with us for decades. People will present with different symptoms monthly.

I also want to support the mica protest today. I ask those who have stayed at home in counties Donegal, Mayo and Clare to look out for the properties of the people who may be attending the protest today. There are people who will take advantage, given the opportunity.