Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Seery Kearney raised the issue of hate crime and I happen to know personally the priest who fell victim to the abuse and the online abuse over the weekend. He is a Limerick man who is in charge of a church in Dublin. He has always been very inclusive and tried to work with people, including the most vulnerable in society. I therefore think it is time we had a debate on hate crime.

I support Senators Casey and Buttimer on the hospitality industry. It is time businesses got the clarity they need. I had a number of businesses in contact with me over the weekend. I am aware the Government has brought forward the decision-making process but we should have a debate on it in the House. We must have a responsible debate and do things responsibly. I support the call for a debate on this because as Senator Casey said, so many people have been vaccinated and are doing things in a responsible manner. It was proven that when restaurants, gastropubs and hotels were open for dining with table service there were no major outbreaks. It is something we can do very well in Ireland.

Conor Murray was appointed captain of the Lions rugby team over the weekend when Alun Wyn Jones, who was a very fine captain, got injured. I wish him a fast recovery. Conor Murray happens to be a member of my own club. He is also a very proud Garryowen, Munster and Ireland rugby player and it is a great honour for Ireland that we have a captain based in Ireland. I know his former schools, St. Munchin's College and Scoil Íde, are very proud of him as well. I wish him all the best in his term as captain. It is a proud day for Ireland.