Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach for the lovely words he said about our colleague and friend, Mary O'Rourke. She was a formidable lady, a wonderful person and was great craic. She had a strong conviction about politics and the need to do good within our own communities and within any role in parliament or at local authority level. Most of all she was a people's person. She had a great interest and insight into people and that was always very clear. The support she gave particularly female Fianna Fáil candidates was very strong. To bear witness to the lovely tributes over the past few days but particularly from her two beloved sons Aengus and Feargal yesterday was really something else. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.

There are a few items I wish to raise. First, we had a presentation in the audiovisual room this morning from the National Women's Council regarding sex-for-rent exploitation.This was a report by the National Women's Council, NWC, on where vulnerable women and vulnerable young men have been preyed upon. It is far more widespread than we would have thought. However, it is clear that we need legislation to make this illegal because it is actually not illegal at this time. I look forward to working with the NWC to ensure that we bring in the appropriate legislation.

Today is also World Dyslexia Awareness day. It is important to raise awareness of the issues facing those with dyslexia. One particular issue that has been raised with me, and I am sure with many others, is school exams. I certainly support the call in terms of introducing extra time for second level exams for students with dyslexia, dyscalculia and other learning difficulties. The lack of appropriate time is a disadvantage and barrier for dyslexic students in second level exams. We need to do everything we can to support them.

There is a local issue I wish to raise that I could not raise on the Order of Business, not in any way due to the Cathaoirleach. I am referring to O'Modhráin Hall in Newbridge. This was a vibrant and thriving community and arts centre for the people in Newbridge. Sadly, it fell into disrepair. Ten years ago Kildare County Council was on the point of buying it as a youth centre for young people. At the last minute, new trustees came on board, sold the hall and are now saying that the proceeds of €213,000 will go to Conradh na Gaeilge. My point is that Conradh na Gaeilge does a lot of excellent work but it is a national organisation. That money should be spent in Newbridge. Ms Orla O'Neill, the daughter of one of the original trustees, has made an excellent suggestion that this should go to Crooked House, a Youth Theatre. I fully support that. I have written to the Charities Regulator to ensure that would be the case. I would like the support of the Seanad on that.