Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Tánaiste is welcome to the House to speak about this important subject that has an impact on many whom we represent around the country. Despite what a colleague said earlier, there has been absolutely no lack of leadership in relation to the Government. Many difficult decisions had to be made and will continue to be made. The emphasis from the Government and Government parties at all times has been about saving lives and livelihoods.

I spoke to many business owners in south Kildare in the aftermath of last Friday's announcement. While many of them absolutely appreciate the importance and intent of the measure, there is no doubt that they are incredibly disappointed, as of course we all are. I refer, in particular, to the local county hotels that mean so much in our provincial towns, such as The Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge and Clanard Court Hotel, Athy, that are a lifeline and provide employment and tremendous services to the communities within which they serve. This is a complete body blow to such hotels. There is no doubt that Covid is continuing to cause a significant disruption to all our lives but we are as dependent on each other's actions and personal responsibilities now as we were in March 2020.

I am concerned with how divisive and combative the debate and chatter around Covid has become. The Government is doing its utmost to keep Irish people safe while trying to balance economic, social and educational liberties. I know it is a difficult job for the Government to find that balance. The NPHET advice does not leave much room for manoeuvring. No politician wants to be the bearer of bad news but, unfortunately, the Government cannot control the transmission or mutation of the virus and therefore must react swiftly when a new variant, such as Omicron, comes to light. Covid is the enemy; not those who come up with policies and regulations and who try to enforce them. We need to do everything we can to reunite our families, friend and communities behind the implementation of public health advice, be that in terms of vaccination, social distancing or mask wearing. The combative narratives we see and hear and the negative framing of issues are sowing the seeds of division within our society. We do not need that and it must be tackled. There is a responsibility on all public representatives to do that.

Many years ago, I worked really hard with others to get a county arts centre in Kildare, based in Newbridge and we were lucky enough to have Riverbank Arts Centre established in Newbridge, which is in a central part of our town. It has been devastating, over the past 20 months, to see the lights off and to see it closed. Last Friday night, I was lucky to visit it to see our local amateur drama group. It was a pleasure to see so many people enjoying being on stage and behind the scenes, in addition to many punters like me who were there to support the arts. I know the reintroduction of restrictions is absolutely devastating for this sector. They will need many sectoral supports to remain viable; of that I have no doubt. Senator Black spoke eloquently about the issues and challenges faced, as did my colleague, Senator Malcolm Byrne. The arts have been severely impacted by the pandemic and they represent a fundamental section of our culture.We are proud in Ireland to be home to such a thriving and internationally acclaimed arts sector ranging from singers to dancers, actors, the orchestra and the opera. These people are devastated to see their livelihoods dwindle away once again. Unfortunately, we have heard ignorant comments such as "get another job" or "get a real job". I want to be clear in the House that we appreciate their phenomenal contribution to Irish society. We are proud that our artistes have chosen to showcase their talents within this country. I, for one, will do everything in my power to represent the arts sector and ensure that adequate supports are made available, thus ensuring there is no brain drain from our arts and culture sector. I speak also about the smaller youth theatres, performing arts schools and local amateur groups.

I commend my Government colleagues, including the Tánaiste, for the swift action they have taken to reinstate financial supports, especially the pandemic unemployment payment. I am glad the PUP is more targeted than it was. I appreciate the adjustments to the Covid restrictions support scheme to support businesses whose trade is significantly impacted. I also welcome the extension of the rates waiver.

Tomorrow is the big shopping day of 8 December. I ask people to shop local because every €10 spent locally is worth €40 in one's local community.