Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank all Senators for their contributions. Senator O'Loughlin spoke about the hospitality industry and the day of action that has been organised today by the Restaurants Association of Ireland and the Vintners Federation of Ireland, supported by Irish Small and Medium Employers. The Minister, Deputy Peter Burke, has committed to a review of the costs of doing business. Significant changes have been made over a number of years that have put pressures on businesses.The changes have not been made for nothing, however. They have been made to support workers, such as the increases in the minimum wage and statutory sick pay. That said, there are significant pressures on businesses. I know there was a huge focus on the VAT rate in the budget, but clearly decisions were made to focus - in terms of the tax package that was available and committed to - on workers, the USC changes and threshold changes in tax. There was a significant package of support for businesses, including the €170 million power-up grant, which will provide €4,000 before Christmas to the businesses that received the increased cost of business grant previously. There have been a number of other changes as well that would benefit certain businesses, such as the VAT registration threshold being increased to €85,000 for goods and €42,500 for services and an increase to the small benefit exemption limitations from €1,000 to €1,500. Therefore, we do acknowledge that there are pressures. We acknowledge the protest, which we take very seriously. As I said, there is a review into the cost of business. It is an issue that we obviously have to keep a huge focus on. Those issues affecting the hospitality sector and small business were also raised by Senator McGreehan.

Senator O'Loughlin also raised the Peter McVerry Trust and the issue regarding the Michael Garry house in Kildare, which was a dry house that then became a wet house. I accept there are different models. Senator Ruane spoke about this, as did Senator Seery Kearney, in the context of the Charities Regulator's report and approved housing bodies. The point regarding the appropriateness of certain accommodation is valid. We want to ensure that anyone who is getting a house, whether that person is elderly or has addiction issues, gets the adequate services and supports. It may not be appropriate to have individuals in certain accommodation, when the best place, for their own sake, in terms of achieving those supports may be elsewhere. There is a balance here in all these things. Certainly, we could have a debate with the Minister on those matters.

Senator Clonan asked that No. 17, the Disability (Personalised Budgets) Bill 2024, be taken before No. 1. I am happy to agree to that. I acknowledge his work and the support he has received from across the House on that matter. The Senator also spoke about the very difficult situation our troops in Lebanon are facing and has called for a civic reception for our troops when they return, something I agree with. Whether it is called a civic reception, a military parade or whatever, I certainly agree with a recognition of the service of peacekeepers in that part of the world. A number of other Senators spoke in support of that as well.

Senator Ruane raised the low-threshold accommodation for those who need help. I agree with the Senator's point about the appropriateness of certain types of accommodation. The Senator has also asked that we take No. 16, the Parole (Special Advocates) Bill 2024 before No. 1. I am happy to agree to that.

Senator Gavan raised the INMO and the pay in numbers. I know both unions appeared before the health committee in recent weeks, and they have raised concerns about the statistics being provided by the HSE and the Department of Health. There are differences of opinion regarding those statistics. The INMO would believe that the nursing statistics include midwives, student nurses and section 39 workers who transferred to hospices, and that other countries do not include those in their statistics. There was a bit of a difference in that regard. I know there has been an increase in the number of nurses in recent years, which has been acknowledged by the INMO. However, there is still clearly a need for that. The Senator also mentioned the Minister for Health. In defence of the Minister, he appeared before the health committee on three separate occasions last week for three separate items, namely, the children's hospital, legislation and another matter that I cannot think of at the moment. The Senator also renewed his call for a debate on the issue of the flights to Israel and the use of Shannon Airport. I will again request that the Tánaiste come in as soon as possible to discuss a range of issues, be it Gaza, Lebanon, the Occupied Territories Bill once the Government receives advice next week and Shannon.

Senator Fitzpatrick has welcomed the progress - if you call it that - with regard to the Occupied Territories Bill. I certainly acknowledge the work by Senator Frances Black and that both Houses have passed this legislation.The Taoiseach, Deputy Simon Harris, requested updated legal advice on the Bill. That was after the International Court of Justice found in July that Israel’s settlement policies and exploitation of natural resources in Palestinian territories were in breach of international law. The Government leaders heard there are still complex legal issues and many challenges to be dealt with before the Bill can be enacted. Formal written advice will be provided to the Cabinet next week. I hope to see progress on a Bill that has cross-party support in both Houses.

Senator Keogan raised an issue relating to a primary medical certificate. I am happy to try to pursue the matter. However, the Senator could ask a colleague in the Lower House to table a parliamentary question to the Minister for Health in respect of it or she could raise it as a Commencement matter here.

Senator Dooley agreed with Senator Clonan’s suggestion about a civic reception. He also talked about the dangers posed by fireworks. The season is upon us when we may hear about accidents and, unfortunately, people being injured, hurt or losing limbs in certain cases or property being destroyed. Fireworks, when properly used, are a pleasure and give enjoyment. However, they are also a danger to properties, lives and pets. I acknowledge that.

Senator Davitt called for a debate on councillors' pensions. I will ask the Minister for housing to come before the house. I acknowledge the work of Government in recent years, particularly by former Minister of State, Deputy John Paul Phelan, and the Minister, Deputy Peter Burke, who pushed through the reform of councillors pay, which was widely supported. There are still issues for what they get for the class S PRSI contribution.

Senator Higgins supported Senator Ruane’s proposals on the personal advocates Bill. The Senator also referred to our nurses. She requested progress on the occupied territories Bill, dual-use goods and trade with Israel. I will request the Tánaiste to come before the House to address those matters.

Senator McGreehan touched on a number of issues, including those relating to businesses, the Middle East and UNIFIL troops.

Senator Robbie Gallagher brought up an issue regarding the Ardee to Castleblayney Road, where 18 people have lost their lives. He spoke of the money committed in respect of the section of the A5 that runs from Monaghan to Derry. An investment of some €900,000 is needed to allow this upgrade to progress. I ask the Senator table a Commencement matter on the subject. I will also send it up the line to the Minister, Deputy Ryan, asking that he comment. That concludes the Order of Business.