Margaret Murphy O'Mahony (Fianna Fail)

I stand in support of the camogie players in the skort debacle. As a former camogie player at local level, it was often pointed out to me that my heart and lack of fear of the hurley made up for my lack of talent. That is a matter for another day. Skorts are very uncomfortable and restrictive. In this day and age, it is fair gall to tell girls what to wear. Even in primary and secondary girls schools, students have the choice to wear skirts or pants, and rightly so. It is so old-fashioned to try and tell any girl what to wear. I hope that the Camogie Association brings its vote forward. In fairness, it is listening in that it has offered to bring the vote that was not due until 2027 forward to 2026. However, that is still a long time away. We should be encouraging girls who do not feel comfortable. Many girls give up sports because they do not feel comfortable. Everything should be done to give them a choice. I am behind them all the way, especially the Cork players who have decided to wear shorts this coming weekend. I hope they will be allowed to do so.