Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I also wish to be associated with the congratulations to Deputy Bacik. I had marked her to be the winner from very early on. It was definitely a woman's seat to win this time around.

This will be a standout week in national politics and we in this House have a very important role. Last night, I received an email from independent Councillor Gillian Toole in Ratoath, who also a pharmacist. Permit me to read from that email:

I find today [to be a] a bittersweet day - the Centenary of the signing of the Truce which ended the War of Independence - and the eve of the day on which you will vote upon emergency legislation, to facilitate the introduction of Vaccine-testing Passports for non-essential services such as indoor dining & attending public houses and thereafter music, arts & entertainment.

You CANNOT create a two-tier society based on a person's private medical information.

I am extremely concerned at the lack of consideration by the Government of several issues including the scientific case ... ethical & discrimination issues, data privacy & security.

The introduction of such a system conflicts with several key fundamental rights enshrined in Bunreacht na hÉireann ...

The introduction of a vaccine-testing status certification will not serve any of our Citizens well. Based on my personal experience as a Community Pharmacist, I have urged you to ensure that front-line Health Services were improved & ICU bed numbers increased on a permanent basis, coupled with certified Antigen testing.

None of this is happening - WHY?

What have you DONE to request this action, much of which is the foundation of the Sláintecare model of Irish healthcare?

It is too easy to proceed with the divisive action planned for this coming week when you could & should "build back a better" health service.

Suffice to say, given the incessant focus on vaccination & disregard for Antigen-testing & the General Register Office 5 year death-rate figures ... one would think that the share price of vaccine-manufacturers is the only goal!

We have to live with this virus & any others on the horizon; we have to provide a health service for ALL our citizens ... & we must do this in an INCLUSIVE environment, not a discriminatory one.

I trust you to make the right & truthful choice in the coming days.

I thank Councillor Toole for that contribution this morning. We really have important choices to make in the interest of all our citizens.