Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is wonderful to have Senator Norris in the House with us. He brings such colour to the place. It is always lovely to see him. It was lovely yesterday that people mentioned him warmly and frequently during the commemorative sitting of Seanad 100 yesterday. It was also lovely to see the retired Members of this House yesterday. We should never forget those men and women who came in here before us and the contribution they have made to the State. I also congratulate the Cathaoirleach, Senator Daly, and everybody else involved in yesterday’s commemorative event. It was a wonderful event. I was delighted to be a part of it.

I move that No. 129(4) on the Order Paper be taken before No. 1, without debate. The motion tabled by our group last month reads: "That Seanad Éireann calls on the Minister for Health to name the new National Children’s Hospital after Dr. Kathleen Lynn, noting her contribution as Chief Medical Officer in the Irish Citizen Army, and her role in establishing St. Ultan’s Hospital, one of the most important centres for paediatric healthcare in the early years of the Irish State." This would be a fitting tribute as we look back over the decade of centenaries and look forward to a new era in children's healthcare in Ireland. With Senator Fitzpatrick’s briefing in the audiovisual room tomorrow, we will have an opportunity to learn more about Dr. Lynn. A newly installed artwork by artist Mary Kelly featuring Dr. Lynn was unveiled in Leinster House this week. It seems therefore that political support is now building for the initiative. I ask, therefore, that Seanad Éireann pass this motion today to name our national children’s hospital after Dr. Kathleen Lynn. I understand my colleague, Senator Victor Boyhan, will second this motion.