Dee Ryan (Fianna Fail)

Gabh mo leithscéal, everybody, we had a little timing issue this morning. We were under the misapprehension that the Order of Business was at 11 a.m. so I was downstairs in committee; I apologise. I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach for the opportunity to speak.

I spent a very interesting morning with a group of business professionals on St. Stephen's Green who were launching the CFO 100 list for business and finance. They were also having an interesting panel discussion on AI and next generation finance. It was a wonderful insight into where multiple different sectors of industry are, not just those from the large technology companies or large businesses, but also SMEs, business owners and entrepreneurs. There was a really good take on where we are within the working world outside the gates of Leinster House with regard to the use of AI in the working world.

Could the Minister of State, Deputy Smyth, be brought in for an update on the important work she is leading in the establishment of the national AI office, which was funded in the budget this week and is due to be opened in August 2026? When the Minister of State has an opportunity, it would be great to have her in the House to get an update on that important subject.

Now that the budget has been published and people are digesting and working their way through it, I call their attention to the very important HIQA report that came out relating to Limerick and the mid-west in the week prior to the budget. I acknowledge the work been done and all the stakeholders who contributed to that.I want to put on record the feedback I have been getting from my community in Limerick. People were not surprised by the stark results laid bare in the report. Their immediate question was what are we going to do about it. With that in mind, I request that the Minister for Health would come into the Chamber and give us some time to discuss this. It is really important.

In Limerick we are facing into another winter that is likely to be a strong flu season, if what is happening in Australia is anything to go by. We know already that we are going to be under severe pressure. We are already under pressure and we know we will not be able to cope. I would welcome the opportunity for the Minister to come into the House to discuss what short-term measures she is able to take to support UHL.