Micheál Carrigy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Like my colleagues, I would like to echo the comments on Ukraine and support the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Coveney, who is acting on behalf of everyone in Ireland. Senator O'Reilly referred to diplomatic relationships, and our Young Fine Gael branch passed a motion regarding diplomatic relations between the two countries. Russia has stepped across the line and it is something we should consider with regard to the ambassador for Russia in Ireland.

I would like to like to raise the issue of ophthalmologist services in my home county, Longford. We have not had one since July 2021. The position has not been filled. Parents were never informed. When this happened a number of years ago, files were transferred to Athlone and people were called for appointments but that has not happened this time. I ask the Leader to write to the Minister for Health and find out when the service will be returned to the county and let parents know it will be available.

Last Tuesday, the Minister for Justice, Deputy McEntee, was in Longford. We visited Longford Women's Link, a domestic violence group which is doing tremendous work. We also met Comhairle na nÓg, the youth council, to discuss the community safety partnership, of which Longford is one of three trial areas. We had an interesting discussion on the issues they experienced on the ground and on proposals they put forward for changes to be made.A proposal that came from several of the groups was to have lids for glasses in nightclubs or pubs. I know this issue has been raised previously. Lids are provided in every shop, coffee dock and so on for cups of coffee. Beer mats and so on are provided. Is it not possible for lids to be provided with alcohol purchased in a pub or nightclub? Many youngsters feel unsafe in the context of drinks being spiked with drugs, etc. This would be a simple thing to bring in and make available in every public house and nightclub.