Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank all Senators for their contributions. There were a number of requests for statements on various issues, which I will bring back to the relevant Departments.

Senators Dooley and Hoey raised the question of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the horrific scenes we are currently witnessing in Rafah. They welcomed the decision of Ireland, along with Norway and Spain, to recognise the State of Palestine today. As Senator Dooley said, the recognition of the State of Palestine in no way condones the horrific actions of Hamas. As a State, we continue to call for an immediate ceasefire, the release of the hostages, and a move towards a long-term peaceful solution, where all the people of Palestine and Israel can live in peace and security. On Senator Hoey's point about the shows of international solidarity, there are many examples whereby we can show solidarity with innocent civilians who are suffering.

It is clear that discussion on the budget is now moving into full swing because a number of budgetary matters were raised. I suspect that we will see many more contributions on budgetary matters in the months ahead. Senator Burke once again raised the issue of the restoration of the temporary 9% VAT rate in the case of food, which he looked at in the context of supporting the very important tourism and hospitality industry. The Ministers for Finance and public expenditure are considering all these issues.

I noticed Senator Keogan in her discussion of capital gains tax raised the concept of a notional spouse or, indeed, where a durable relationship exists-----