Mary Seery Kearney (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am surprised at what Senator Craughwell said about turbines. My understanding from the housing committee was that turbines are getting smaller rather than bigger. I am surprised by his point and I will certainly raise it as an issue. It seems contrary to what we were told in the housing committee as we went through the planning permission for all of these, especially offshore.

Do I infer Senator Craughwell's support for the patents Bill? It is very important and I appreciate it. The language might already be published.

Senator McGreehan raised the waiver of the development levy, which was also raised by Senator Casey. There is no question but that it has been a massive step forward in increasing the number of commencements. The extension was raised by my colleagues in the parliamentary party last night. I note it will be 24 April and we are back the week before that. Perhaps Senators could table many Commencement matters on it and act on it. There is no question that it needs to be raised.

Senator McGreehan also raised the disproportionate impact that VAT has on Border counties. I read the reports last weekend and the idea that suddenly the bottom can drop out of their business must be quite frightening for those living and earning their living along the Border. Certainly I am mindful of it. The deadline is Monday week and it is incumbent on all of us to consider this issue. I will ask the Leader to write on behalf of the Seanad to make this point.

Senator Keogan raised the issue of puberty blockers. I concur with her insofar as body dysmorphia is real and we need evidence-based treatment. From this perspective I completely agree.

With regard to mother and baby homes, there will be a disproportionate effect for older people who perhaps do not have any photographic ID. I am very happy to make representation directly to the Minister today on this. Senator Boyhan raised the extension of the mother and baby home payment scheme and I will address that in a moment. I am supporting a number of women who have been making applications since yesterday. It has not yet come up for me but I very much take on board that it has been experienced.