Seán Kyne (Fine Gael)

I thank all Senators for their contributions this morning.

Senator O'Loughlin raised a number of issues, including funding with regard to dog wardens. She said she would welcome a debate on the education of young people, in particular, and indeed all people on the care of dogs and the threats that some dogs can pose. She also raised the issue of the UNIFIL mandate. Obviously, the Joint Committee on Defence and National Security has been debating the Bill on the triple lock and other matters, and we have discussed this matter as well. She also raised issues regarding the proposed national children's science centre. Senator Andrews has views on that matter as well.

Senator Nelson Murray raised the issue of adaptation grants. We know the importance of those to people up and down the country. She is right to suggest that the maximum grants have not kept cost with inflation and building costs. Certainly, I will raise that with the Minister. She also raised issues regarding the reduced VAT rate, which is a budgetary issue, and hedge cutting, which is a perennial issue and will, I am sure, be discussed here next year and at local authorities. It seems to be something that is raised constantly. Hedge cutting can take place if there is a road safety concern, particularly at junctions. Senator Boyle has raised this in the past and has carried out some work. It is something that is allowed under the existing legislation.

Senators Clonan and McDowell have proposed and seconded an amendment to the Order of Business looking for No. 52 be taken before item No. 1. I will agree to that. I was engaging with the Department of foreign affairs on a cross-party amendment, but they beat me to it. Their efficiency is to be applauded. I absolutely accept the issues there, and I have to support that. They also raised the issue of former Deputy Alan Shatter's comments at the committee. I have not heard them. I am sure whoever was at the committee gave a robust retort to those comments. Perhaps we might have a debate with the Minister or with Mr. Shatter. Either of the Senators on radio would be worth listening to because there are some very serious issues. I certainly do not believe that Irish people are antisemetic in condemning what is going on and the atrocities and the murder of children in Gaza.

Senator Ryan raised the issue of the wage subsidy scheme and corporate index thinking, particularly for those with a disability. I will maybe ask her to table a Commencement matter. This would be a budgetary matter, so if she tables a Commencement matter for the new session, she could get the response of the Minister with regard to budget negotiations.

Senator Stephenson called for a debate with regard to Gaza. I acknowledge her comments on the area.