Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I compliment Senator Martin. I am also very happy to be one of the co-sponsors of the Bill. We have taken our lead in not expanding on the different sections. The key point is that, if this keeps moving through, it is an opportunity to ensure we deliver protection for the native Irish honeybee next year. It is important we complement that with really strong measures in protecting the habitat. In that regard, we need to look to our hedgerows and pollinator plants, including in urban areas. It is vital for our ecosystems as well as for our horticulture. We certainly do not want to end up with bees becoming an input like seeds or fertiliser. This is something that is part of the fabric of Irish life.