Maria McCormack (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I do not need a microphone. I congratulate the Cathaoirleach. I am looking forward to working with everyone here. It is great to hear such positivity and inclusion in the Chamber. I hope it can stay like that and we can work together to share our visions for a better Ireland, a united Ireland. It is with immense pride and gratitude that I stand here today as a woman elected to represent Laois. I do not think there is anybody else from Laois in the Seanad.

It is lovely to hear frequent references to the fantastic former Senator Norris who did some great work here. I have big boots to fill but it is a great privilege for me to stand here as a woman, as the first and the only female Oireachtas Member from Laois.

It is not only a personal achievement but a historic moment for our community and for the women of Laois and Ireland. I stand here as a proud representative of Sinn Féin, the party that supports women, with 42% women in the party. I begin by acknowledging the party for placing its trust in me. I vow to work tirelessly to represent the needs and aspirations of all the people in my constituency of Laois.

I stand here with a deep sense of responsibility and am determined to bring their voices to the heart of the Seanad. There are many issues on which I will focus. I hope to work with all Members throughout my term here. However, there are issues that are both urgent and close to my heart. First and foremost I am committed to championing women's health and domestic abuse services. As we know, women's health is often sidelined in policy and healthcare. We cannot stand idly by while our sisters struggle in silence.

Domestic abuse is another area that has been too long underfunded and under-prioritised. I will continue to advocate for stronger support systems, better prevention programmes and more funding for women's refuges and services across the country, particularly in rural areas such as Laois, so that it is not forgotten. In the first eight weeks of this year seven women were killed. I want us all to take a moment to remember that and remember those women. We are here with a job and we must represent everyone all over Ireland.

In Laois we are witnessing a rapid population growth and with this growth comes an urgent need for community resources and facilities. Our schools, healthcare facilities and public services are stretched thin. It is critical that we match the population growth with investment in these services. People in Laois deserve modern, accessible facilities that can cater for the needs of this growing, diverse population. As a member of Sinn Féin, I am deeply committed to building our party in the constituency of Laois. We have rich history in activism, republicanism and community-driven change. It is essential that we continue to foster these values and strengthen our presence at local level and overall here in the Seanad. I will work tirelessly with local communities to address their needs and to ensure that our message resonates with the people I represent.

Housing remains one of the most pressing issues in Laois and throughout the country of Ireland. Too many families are struggling to secure affordable housing and the State must do more to ensure that everyone has access to a safe and secure home. We need investment in social housing, increased protections for renters and a fairer housing system that prioritises those who are most vulnerable.

I am excited to work alongside my colleagues on the Sinn Féin team of 45 Members, to bring real, meaningful change to Laois and to Ireland. We are a party that stands up for people and I am determined to ensure the voices of women, families, carers and communities are heard in this House.