Micheál Carrigy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I want to offer my sympathies to both Senator Paul Daly and Senator Buttimer on their recent bereavements. I also support the comments of Senator Cassells. One thing about the GAA Congress is that either the uachtarán report or ard stiúrthóir report always makes some thought-provoking proposals. I look forward to working with Senator Cassells and, indeed, the GAA at Oireachtas joint committee level to progress the proposals, which are extremely important.

I also support Senator McDowell's comments. It is important that both Houses of the Oireachtas send out a strong message to support not just the people in Ukraine, but the Ukrainian community in Ireland. We are in the decade of centenaries and we are celebrating the 100th anniversary of the men and women from our country who fought for freedom and gave us the freedom we have. Yet, 100 years on, on the European continent, we have the men and women of Ukraine fighting to keep their democracy. It is important that we send out that strong support.

I would like to raise the issue of car parking places. It is something that I believe in. Waterford City and County Council has taken a lead in introducing a pilot scheme for what are called "hidden disabilities". That basically means providing specific spaces for people with autism, chronic pain, learning difficulties, mental health conditions, mobility issues, etc, beside amenities. The lack of such spaces makes simple everyday tasks such as shopping and going to appointments more challenging for people with those disabilities. Just because we cannot see it because it is a hidden disability, it can be difficult for people to understand or even recognise the challenges and respond with empathy or patience. I believe firmly, and I am speaking as a father as well, that we need to generate more awareness of these conditions and encourage acceptance, understanding and inclusion in our society. I call on all local authorities to follow the lead of Waterford City and County Council and provide hidden disability parking places in their county towns.