Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail)

On behalf of the Fianna Fáil Party, I extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the former Senator, Professor James Doolan. I remember him coming to my house when my father was a councillor. There were lots of visitors and, living out in the country, one always looked forward to those who came canvassing for the Seanad election. He stood out. There was just something very special about him. I think part of that was because of his sister, Lelia, who was the most wonderful actress. My parents were big into theatre and drama at the time and that connection was an important one. We remember him fondly. As the Cathaoirleach said, he added a lot to the Seanad and to academia.

There are a number of issues I wish to raise. The first is the fact that today starts Baby Loss Awareness Week. It is an important week for so many. We know from statistics, behind which are heartbroken families, that approximately one in five pregnancies in Ireland ends in miscarriage. That is approximately 50 every day. In addition, approximately 250 babies are stillborn every year. Féileacáin does a wonderful job supporting heartbroken and bereaved parents. I know that from a friend of mine who sadly lost twins. One was stillborn and the other died a few hours later. Féileacáin does incredible work at a really important and difficult time for mums, dads and all of the extended family, etc. It is important we acknowledge and recognise the work Féileacáin does and say to families that we are thinking of them.

I also raise an issue that has occurred at a hub in Enfield where the library is colocated with other businesses. Seven young people with autism who are non-verbal attend a service there twice a week. The service gives great support to the young people and their families who are from Meath and north-west Kildare. Some of these families contacted me. Unfortunately, a complaint was made within the library services that some noise was emanating from the autism service. The library service has decided that this is not an appropriate place for the autism service to continue. I contacted Meath County Council and I spoke to Councillor Caroline O'Reilly, who is very supportive of trying to find a space for the families. It goes to the question of how we support people with disabilities and their families. We have to support them and find safe and inclusive spaces for them to have their journey. It is a matter about which we need to have a wider debate.