Regina Doherty (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes, it would be nice to do something to recognise his bravery. Senator Malcolm Byrne mentioned the guests from his media freedom event this morning. He recognised the illegal detention of Jimmy Lai, whose relatives were present in the Chamber this morning and to whom I wish to send our solidarity.

Senator Black proposed an amendment to the Order of Business - it was seconded by Senator Higgins - and that is no problem at all. She also spoke about the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2022, which came into play from yesterday. I am really mindful that only 8% of those adults have applied for enduring power of attorney so it is important we all make sure everybody has access to the new legislation.

Senator Burke spoke about having a debate on land that has been newly zoned up and down the country against the landowner's wishes. He said that this will have implications for the plans that local authorities are devising, and is also against the wishes of people who want to continue to farm or will never let their land be developed. I will organise that as quickly as I can.

After many years of supporting the families in looking for an inquest, Senator Boylan brought to our attention the establishment of the Stardust inquest. She is dead right when she says that the next couple of weeks will be really emotional for all the families. As the Senator said, it is important that everybody understands the loss of life and who those people were in order that they are no longer just statistics.

Senator Boyhan spoke about welcoming Larry McCarthy, which we are all looking forward to doing today. He also spoke about the development levy suspension and set out some queries and concerns about that.

Senator Crowe welcomed the housing measures but is also looking for a debate on planning permission refusals by An Bord Pleanála with the Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien.