Sarah O'Reilly (Aontú)

Even though the budget is being announced today, the media focus is still quite fixated on the presidential election. The resignation of Jim Gavin means there is a further narrowing of options for voters. It is so disheartening for the entire voting population and those who do not feel either of the candidates represent them. We had the opportunity to nominate an independent candidate and, unfortunately, Members of the Oireachtas did not listen to the electorate, which is something we like to pride ourselves on.

People are calling for an internal review into what happened with Jim Gavin's campaign and how poorly he polled before his decision to resign. There does not need to be a review to know the fundamental problem, which was putting one person's wants over those of members. It is that simple. There are so many hard-working people across cumainn who go out postering, leafleting and canvassing. They give up their spare time in the summer and winter months for their party. I have done this. We have all done this for our parties. How are they rewarded by the leadership of their parties? Their opinions, voices and expertise are ignored time and again.

Because of this ongoing debacle, the budget and Gaza, important stories and cries for help are falling through the cracks of the media cycle. Hunger strikers have been outside the Department of agriculture for the past 17 days. These brave people are survivors of industrial and reformatory schools. These vulnerable individuals should not be left to languish outside the gates of Leinster House and the Department of agriculture. They received a State apology from the then Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, but apologies mean little when the Government does not back it up with financial support. Their asks are very modest considering the hardship they have endured. All they are looking for is a HAA card and access to the State contributory pension. It is scandalous to think they were forced into unpaid work for years and will receive no contributory pension. I raised this issue on Thursday and I asked for statements on it. Again, I was ignored. I was not even mentioned in the Leader's response, so I will ask again. People are outside of this building on day 17 of a hunger strike and we are totally fixated on Gaza, the presidential election and the budget. I want the matter to be addressed before it escalates.