Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

They can engage if they feel there is something inappropriate.

I compliment Senator Carrigy, who is a strong advocate for autism. I attended the launch of the interim report on the summer programme for next year. The Senator commented on the use of technologies for non-verbal children, which is a wonderful suggestion and should be taken up. I am sure he will find support in these Houses for that.

Senator Conway highlighted the reductions in the costs of diesel and petrol, for which we are thankful, and spoke about the temporary energy business support scheme. Thankfully, as a result of the strong tax revenues it has, the Government is in a position to be able to support businesses that need assistance at this time. Indeed, individuals are also being supported under various social welfare schemes but Senator Conway mentioned the help being given to businesses with energy costs under the temporary energy business support scheme.

I concur with what Senator Maria Byrne said about the need to shop locally. While there will be online shopping over the Christmas period, I hope people shop online from Irish companies and such companies are prioritised. Many companies now have an online presence and it is an important part of their business. If people could prioritise Irish shops, that would be beneficial for those companies, for their employees and for the economy and society.

Senator Gavan quoted from Bob Dylan's "Chimes of Freedom" and mentioned the services of the valuable pop-up shops that have appeared in Limerick city.

I have joined Senators in congratulating Senator Seery Kearney.

Senator Dolan spoke about mindfulness, of which we could all be aware and conscious. She also mentioned the supports that are provided under the town and village renewal scheme, as announced today by the Minister, Deputy Humphreys. She referred specifically to the supports being given to Arigna and Ballinasloe under the scheme.

This might be my last ever Order of Business, although who knows? I thank all Senators for their courtesy over the past couple of years and also in my term as Government Chief Whip. I thank everybody both in government and in opposition for their courtesy over the past two and a half years.