Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I support the Order of Business as outlined. I spoke yesterday about the bravery of Bláthnaid Raleigh. I have to mention her again because when I was driving in this morning, I heard her interview on RTÉ Radio One. It was a very compelling interview. I drove in and stayed in the car to listen to the end of it. I do not mind admitting that I shed tears listening to her. I commend her courage, bravery and generosity of spirit in terms of sharing her story and the impact of what happened, not just on her but also on her family. For example, her brothers had to move sports clubs but could not tell anybody why. To think that she had to wait for five years for justice, which was a quarter of her life because she was only 21 when this happened. A few things about it struck me. Every school in Ireland should play that interview to students. It makes for difficult listening, but it is important to listen. I also felt that Bláthnaid very eloquently spoke about revictimisation. That is something we need to take note of in terms of supporting victims of abuse, whatever type of abuse it is. She also spoke about the need for men to call out their peers. That is important. It is a strong message that should come from us, which is why I mention the matter. I wish her well in her journey. She has had so much to deal with on a physical and an emotional level.

Next Friday is Your Council Day. Some 949 councillors who have been elected or re-elected. I wish them all well. In the past week, we have elected new mayors and cathaoirligh. Councils have over 1,000 functions. It is really important to highlight those. They will be highlighted right across the country on Friday. To those who are listening in or who may listen in later, I say that it is important to see the excellent work that local authorities do.

I was at Mr. Charlie O'Connor's retirement party last night. He is an incredible man, who was first elected in 1991. I wish him well. He will stay involved in the community.

On graveyards, we have had extensions in Rathangan, Allen, Newbridge and Athy. In Milltown, the local committee under Mr. Gavin O'Connor has come together to raise funds. I wish the committee the best of luck. I know local authorities provide support grants. There is an issue about the maintenance of graveyards because in the past, community employment schemes were used. In a time of full employment, however, it is difficult to get people.Local authorities, with the support of the Department, will have to look at how they maintain our loved ones’ resting places. I would like to see a debate on that.