Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There are challenges and issues but we can address them with a collective mindset governed by the need to do better. We must always remember that this is a land of opportunity. We are on the periphery of Europe and yet at its heart. Our housing system needs to be addressed. The quality of engagement in many parts of our communities needs to be looked at. I want to praise my colleague, Senator Mary Seery Kearney, for the work she is doing in her area. The issue of mental health, which was raised by Senator McGahon, was never spoken about 30 or 40 years ago. For a man to say he was suffering from depression or could not cope was unheard of. Today we can talk about that and have that conversation. That is positive.

Yesterday's budget has been described as making significant changes to many different issues facing parts of the Government programme. There is a new tax credit for renters. There is free contraception. The help-to-buy scheme has been extended. Imagine the consternation in this House 20, 30 or 40 years ago if a Minister - and a former Minister for Justice, Senator McDowell, is here - said we are giving free contraception to people under 30. Imagine the consternation there would have been.