Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Order of Business is No. 1, statements on transport and tourism, to be taken at 12.45 p.m. and to conclude no later than 2.45 p.m., with the initial contribution of the Minister not to exceed 12 minutes, the contributions of group spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes, those of all other Senators not to exceed five minutes and the Minister to be given ten minutes to reply at the end of the debate; No. 29, Private Members' business, non-Government motion No. 16 re hospital waiting lists, to be taken at 2.45 p.m., with the time allocated to the debate not to exceed two hours; No. 2, statements on the annual national transition statement on climate action and low carbon development, to be taken at 4.45 p.m. and to conclude no later than 6 p.m., with the contributions of group spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes, those of all other Senators not to exceed five minutes and the Minister to be called upon to reply no later than 5.50 p.m; and No. 3, statements of clarification on statements made by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, to be taken at 6 p.m., with the contributions of group spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes, those of all other Senators not to exceed five minutes and the Minister, Deputy Zappone, to be given six minutes to reply to the debate.

Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Obviously, the issue of what the Taoiseach knew and when he knew it is dominating the headlines today. There seems to be a lack of reality with regard to his statements. Every time he talks about the McCabe issue, he seems to contradict not only himself but also his own Ministers. Hopefully, we will get clarity on who knew what and when but as we all know, that is a distraction. It is merely a circus and a source of entertainment for political types and the media but is of little real concern to the people on the ground. What is of real concern to the people on the ground is the central issue of the treatment of Sergeant Maurice McCabe, a whistleblower who was doing his job as he saw fit and who raised concerns about An Garda Síochána. He has made allegations that he was targeted with a smear campaign of the worst and most vile type. That is why we welcome a tribunal of inquiry that will get to the truth of this issue. This is not just about Sergeant Maurice McCabe. We need to get to the bottom of why it was that a whistleblower, who did his job correctly and acted in the best interests of every citizen was smeared rather than protected. We introduced whistleblower legislation to protect whistleblowers but we should not only be seeking to protect them but to actually reward and encourage them. We should make sure that the State not only protects whistleblowers but encourages and rewards them for doing their job. Anyone who comes forward and acts as a whistleblower is doing a great service to this State. When we get to the bottom of all of this it is to hoped that those who have had allegations made against them in terms of their attempts to smear Sergeant McCabe will face the full rigour of the law.

In the context of the Taoiseach's inability to communicate, there was an event recently in Cork at which a person professed to be an Irish Sign Language interpreter. That person was actually a comedian and I have received communications from members of the deaf community who were outraged by his behaviour. He portrayed himself as a sign language interpreter and then interfered at an event at which the Taoiseach was speaking. It was a deplorable and appalling act to use the issue of the lack of recognition of Irish Sign Language in that way. Ireland is one of the few countries in Europe not to recognise the sign language used by its own deaf community.

I wish to put the Leader on notice, in regard to the Corporate Manslaughter (No. 2) Bill and the Recognition of Irish Sign Language for the Deaf Community Bill, that on 25 March Fianna Fáil will propose an amendment to the Order of Business to the effect that Committee Stage of both Bills be taken. We have asked various Departments to submit their Committee Stage amendments but they have come up with all sorts of excuses and have not done so.My party will table amendments to the Order of Business on 25 March.

Victor Boyhan (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I want to refer to a headline that was published in The Irish Timeslast Friday that reads: "State sent €4m in funding for migrants back to EU." The European Commission confirmed that over half the funding provided for a series of projects was returned. That is a sorry state of affairs.

The general programme on solidarity and management of migration flows consists of four instruments called the European return fund, the European fund for the integration of third-country nationals, the external borders fund and the European refugee fund. The relevant Minister must be asked why €4 million was returned to the European Union and not drawn down at a time when we need to work closely with refugees and the other people who are covered by the remit of this funding. A number of MEPs have raised this matter in the European Parliament. I thank and acknowledge their work on this issue. We should hear from the relevant Minister about this matter.

I do not want to rehash the ongoing saga mentioned by Senator Mark Daly earlier. The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs shall attend the House this evening for a debate which is welcome. I am not sure we will have enough time for the debate given the public interest in the topic and the desire by many Senators to ask questions and receive detailed responses. Within the limits that are possible, I ask the Leader to slightly extend the period allocated for the debate and I know the final decision rests with the Senators. We need time to tease out the issues and, more importantly, to hear what the Minister has to say. Yesterday, I sat in the Visitors' Gallery in the Dáil and she demonstrated great clarity when she spoke. Without doubt, many Senators will want to ask her questions later today.

Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As a Member of the Oireachtas, I was amazed that Government Ministers spent three full hours yesterday clarifying what they had already stated in public. Maurice McCabe and his wife, in their statement on Monday last, asked some very straightforward questions. They said that the truth was more urgent than justice. Their questions related to the handling of the false sex abuse allegations made against Sergeant McCabe. Communication between An Garda Síochána, the HSE and Tusla, and in what period they took place, are all crucial. Yesterday, the Taoiseach was asked over ten times when he was first briefed about the allegations made against Maurice McCabe. At no stage did the Taoiseach answer the question. Perhaps the Leader of the Seanad can fill us in on what the Taoiseach could not do.

I find it incredible that the Government can publicly proclaim confidence in itself after yesterday's shambles. To be clear, these were statements clarifying what had already been said. The Taoiseach, though wearing an ear piece, struggled to convincingly recall events at which he was present.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is a new low.

Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Today the Leader in this House referred to the fact that he might need glasses. I seriously think that the Taoiseach needs to wear an ear piece or use something to improve his hearing.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator ought to hold a mirror up to herself.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Order, please.

Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Government, with the continuous help of its Fianna Fáil partners, will no doubt declare confidence in itself. Yesterday, it showed a lack of competence and integrity.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator has some cheek.

Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am sorry but there is a terrible interference in my ear.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Perhaps the Senator is wearing the wrong ear piece.

Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Maybe the Taoiseach is trying to get through.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Enough of that, please.

Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

On such a serious issue the public needs to know that capable and honest public representatives are doing their best to remedy the situation. After yesterday's pantomime I doubt if the public has confidence in the competence of the Government.

Over the past few days I cannot help but remember all of the really good members of An Garda Síochána throughout this country, those who have been forced to retire early or resign due to overt and concerted bullying or those who have been repeatedly overlooked for promotion just because they stood up for what is right within the force. It is important that we remember all of those people at this time.

I ask the Leader if he has full confidence in the Government following the farce that took place in the Dáil Chamber yesterday. I look forward to his constructive comments as always.

Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I look forward to our debate with the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs and I shall not talk about the subject now.

I echo the comments of concern expressed by Senator Boyhan about the return of funding that was provided to assist with migration projects. I call for a debate on how Ireland intersects with European migration policy, particularly the EU migration compacts that are being debated in committee. We should discuss the migration compacts in the Seanad because many questions need to be asked about EU policy, how we engage with it in respect of migration and the responsible role that we should play.

Today, the European Parliament will vote on the provisional application of the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement. As the Leader and other Senators will recall, we passed a motion of concern about the matter. I regret that the European Parliament has previously chosen not to vote to use the appropriate checks and balances. For example, checking the investor court mechanisms against the European Court of Justice and not to debate this specific issue. I plead with the Leader and his party colleagues to carefully reconsider their decision because they plan to support the provisional application. I would like to focus on what the outcome may be. If the European Parliament votes for the provisional application of the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement then I seek clarity given the clearly expressed concern of the House about this issue. What does the Government plan to do in the interim between provisional application and full ratification? Will the Government seek an investor court system?

I represent these Houses on the Council of Europe. Recently the Council of Europe held a plenary session comprising parliamentarians from across Europe. At the meeting there was large support for two motions from the Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights and the Committee on Social Affairs, Health and Sustainable Development. They called for a re-examination of the provisions of the investor court system to ensure its compatibility with the European Court of Human Rights. There was also a call to re-examine components such as the payment for future loss of profit, which was a specific concern that was expressed right across the chamber.

If the Government does not offer support then at least will it ensure it does not block a review of the investor court system? Will the Government facilitate challenges at the legislative level in the European Court of Justice to the investor court system? I refer to the period between provisional application and full ratification.

I know there are Senators who are on the Joint Committee on Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation. Recently I attended one of its meetings. On that occasion we heard of the disgraceful lack of proper engagement about exemptions and exclusions. We also heard that there was no parliamentary debate or even consultation at committee level on what Ireland chose to exclude from its concerns about the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement. Will we ensure that such negligence does not continue? I ask the Leader to ensure that the House receives a speedy and timebound proofing of the legislative programme and a report to this House on the potential impact of the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement on the legislative programme.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator's time is up.

Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We must know where action needs to be taken in respect of things like fracking legislation and other legislation. Please ensure that legislation is fasttracked-----

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator has run a minute over time.

Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

-----that could be affected by the full ratification. We must get the regulations in place before further constraints are imposed in terms of a compensatory price tag.

Ivana Bacik (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leader for organising tonight's debate with the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in attendance, on foot of the requests made here yesterday. Clearly, many more questions need to be answered on the political events of the past week, the differences in views and the alternative facts, one might say, expressed by different Ministers on what happened at different meetings.As others have said, last night's debate in the Dáil was somewhat farcical; it really threw more heat than light on the events. Over the weekend arising from the political fallout we have seen, I raised the issue of Article 28.4.2° of the Constitution and the principle of Cabinet collective responsibility. I asked the question that remains pertinent as to whether Cabinet members were acting collectively and in accordance with the principle set out in that article in the Constitution when they took a decision last week to establish the commission of investigation.

As we know, of course, we have now moved on from that decision and I very much welcome the Taoiseach's announcement of a public tribunal of inquiry. I acknowledge and pay tribute to our party leader, Deputy Howlin, whose intervention prompted the change towards a public tribunal. It is clear now that we need to air these issues in public. Despite the focus on political fallout over which Ministers knew what at which point and said what to whom, the fundamental issue is the appalling treatment of Sergeant Maurice McCabe and his family, and the awful trauma they have suffered for so many years.

The other fundamental issue, of course, is the serious issue about corruption within policing that Maurice McCabe exposed through his whistleblowing. I ask the Leader for a debate on policing issues and in particular on the oversight mechanisms that have now been established within An Garda Síochána, largely as a result of the brave actions of whistleblowers such as Maurice McCabe. When I was a member of the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality, we had extensive debates with representatives of the Garda Inspectorate. We went through the report they produced which confirmed the writing-off of penalty points, the issue raised by Maurice McCabe.

Now that the Policing Authority is in place and we have strengthened the power of GSOC it is time to see whether these mechanisms are sufficient to ensure we do not have the widespread practices that Maurice McCabe and others exposed. I ask for that debate, being mindful of the appalling treatment suffered by Maurice McCabe and of the need for the public tribunal of inquiry that has been announced.

I ask the Leader for a debate on immigration policy. Yesterday I had a Commencement Matter addressed to the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Fitzgerald, that was dealt with by the Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath. I raised the recent Court of Appeal decision of the rights of families, undocumented migrants here who have overstayed student visas but many of whom have children. I understand 70 applications have been lodged to the court pending an appeal being taken by the State to the Supreme Court. I ask for a debate on immigration policy and on our treatment of undocumented persons, given how vocal we have all been in our criticism of President Trump over the undocumented Irish in the US.

Maura Hopkins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

A parent, whose child is on a list for rehabilitation at the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dún Laoghaire, has brought to my attention that 12 beds have been closed at that hospital. I have followed that up with the office of the chief executive and received the following reply:

Following consultation with the HSE, it has been necessary for the NRH to reduce its existing bed capacity by 8 beds in the Brain Injury Programme, and 4 beds in the Spinal Cord Injury Programme, to enable the hospital to provide a safe and appropriate level of care to patients from within existing resources. In January 2016, a detailed workforce planning document was submitted to the HSE for the additional staffing required to ensure that NRH beds, given their scarcity, should be fully available at all times. This submission is still under consideration by the HSE.

Closing 12 existing beds out of 120 beds, 10%, is simply not acceptable. It is soul destroying for the parent, child and the family, as well as for people across the country who have to wait months for a bed in the NRH and during that time occupy an acute bed in a general hospital. Given the trauma of an injury, be that a stroke, a spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease, these people need access to timely and specialist rehabilitation. Confirmation that bed capacity has been reduced by 12 beds is simply not acceptable. I wrote to the Minister, Deputy Harris, last night. I asked him and I am asking the Leader now to ensure that the HSE deals with this issue immediately. It is simply not good enough.

Keith Swanick (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise the incredible story of a concerned citizen, Paul Egan, who should be called a Good Samaritan. It started almost three weeks ago on 27 January in Keshkerrigan, County Leitrim, when Paul Egan, a HSE employee from Sligo encountered a very serious car crash. He witnessed an 18-year old woman, Tamara Jade Huxtable, from Drumshanbo, County Leitrim, wandering in the middle of the road after her friend's car crashed into a wall.

As it was pouring with rain, he helped Tamara into the passenger seat of his car for shelter. They were soon joined by gardaí, and members of the fire brigade and ambulance service. During that time, Tamara began to lapse in and out of consciousness. Following very clear protocols, it was decided for fear of spinal injuries that Tamara would be cut out of the vehicle. This vehicle was not involved in the accident, but was the vehicle of Paul Egan, the Good Samaritan. In summary, his 2008 Opel Astra car was destroyed in the operation, including having its roof removed. She was then removed from the vehicle and airlifted away by helicopter.

The kindness of strangers such as Paul on that night helps prevent more serious injury. However, Paul Egan now has no car. A crowd-funding page has been set up by others to help him. He has had to hire a car to allow him to continue to work. Now the insurance company is passing the buck. It is an absolute scandal that a man who came to the assistance of somebody in serious danger that night in Leitrim is being given the run-around by the insurance company. It has even advised him that when he goes to renew his policy, it will treat it as if he had a claim from the accident, which is unbelievable.

I ask the Leader to intervene in this case with the Minister for Finance, and the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation. Generous members of the public have raised money to get him back on the road and back to work. The insurance companies need to be brought to task over this. Despite all this, Paul Egan has said he would do the same thing again if he encountered the same scenario. He said, "I have teenage daughters myself and I’d be hoping someone would look after them if they had a problem."

Gerard Craughwell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I raise the issue of time for debate in this House. The Minister, Deputy Zappone, will come to the House this afternoon. I appreciate she has limited time available in order to deal with questions. However, right now several organisations in the State are at risk of suffering severe reputational damage which may go on into the future.

The Senate has to come to terms with the new politics. In fairness to the Leader, he has embraced it as much as he can. There are 13 Independents in this House. Not all of us have the same view. All of us have our own questions and issues that we wish to raise. We can no longer rely on the old system that pertained with party spokespeople or the leader of a particular group to deal with things. This is a Senate that is on its way to reform. It is not appropriate for people to come in here and talk about their "constituencies" - we do not have a constituency. We are national politicians. We are here in order to hold the Government to account. The days of that nonsense are over. It is now time for the Seanad to start to behave as it was designed to behave, which is to hold the Government to account.

We have so many conflicting stories coming out of Dáil Éireann at the moment. They are changing their story by the new time down there. We need to be free to ask questions here without turning it into politics. They should be straight, honest, decent questions to try to get straight, honest, decent answers for people. The Leader knows as well as I do that by allowing eight minutes per group and five minutes thereafter, nobody will get in thereafter. I am pleading with the Leader now to extend the time.We will more than likely have the Minister, Deputy Fitzgerald, in the House before the end of the week and the call I am making will also have to apply at that time.

Maria Byrne (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise a matter I raised previously concerning the changes being made within Bank of Ireland. As of last Monday, customers can no longer speak to any of the bank's team over the telephone. Customers were not informed about this change and have only heard about it on going into the bank's branches. The bank is encouraging people to transact their business online.

A number of elderly people have called to my constituency about this matter. They have never used a computer and do not know how to access their banking to deal with their queries online. When they called into the bank, they were assured they would be able to use a telephone in the branch and speak to somebody at the other end of the line. This change has raised a fear factor for older people. They have been used to going into their bank branch and having an official deal with their queries, whether it related to their account balance, if their account is overdrawn or whatever the query may be.

Banks need to be more customer friendly. I understand they are trying to bring services into the modern world but this change does not suit everybody. Older people are fearful of it and a number of the bank branches that are close to where they live have been closed. They are now dependent on going into the few bank branches that remain open to have their queries dealt with. I would like the Leader to raise this issue. I have written to Bank of Ireland raising people's fear about this change. This is a fear factor for older people.

Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I want to address Senator Hopkins's concerns regarding the National Rehabilitation Hospital. One has to ask the question. Who is in charge of asylum? It is her party's Minister for Health that is closing hospital beds. It is bizarre that she is raising an issue when it is her party's Minister who is doing the damage. It is equally bizarre at a time when there is an unprecedented crisis in health, housing and justice that Fianna Fáil continues to insist on supporting this wretched Government which has lost all credibility at this point.

I want to raise the issue of Israel and to quote from a letter I received from the Mission of the State of Palestine. It states that in the month of January 2017 the Israeli Government approved the construction of 566 new settlement units in occupied East Jerusalem. It also states that the Israeli Government then approved the building of another 5,500 units throughout the Occupied West Bank.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Oh dear God.

Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I do not appreciate hearing "Oh dear God. This is a serious issue that needs action.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I was not referring to the Senator. I was reading a note.

Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade has taken no action to date. I ask the Leader to arrange for the Minister to come into the House in order that we can debate this issue. We need the Government to embrace the call for boycott, divestment and sanctions against the apartheid Israeli state. There is no room for ifs and buts in this regard. We were very clear regarding South Africa in the 1980s that we would not endorse an apartheid state. Despite this I fear there are people in this room who would prefer not to address this issue. It goes beyond normal politics. We cannot endorse or turn a blind eye to what is happening in occupied Palestine today. Things are getting worse by the day. A total of 240 Palestinian families have been put out of their homes and their homes have been demolished in the past month alone. Therefore, we need to talk about this. I ask the Leader to arrange for the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to come into the House to let us to have a proper debate on occupied Palestine and to give all Members the opportunity to embrace the call for boycott, divestment and sanctions against the Israeli state. Words are not enough.

John Dolan (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is important to honour and respect what is in the public interest with respect to events during the past week and the grave injuries that have been visited upon certain people. The issue I wish to raise is related to that. In raising it again I may be boring people. It concerns the 600,000 people with disabilities and mental health needs and their families. There are strong commitments in the programme for Government to make advances during this Administration. There has been a delay in the ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities. There is nothing to stop the Government being seen by these people, their families and communities to be cracking on with that work, and there is a great need to do that. There are serious issues to be addressed in the areas of income, housing, education, employment and health. With respect and honour for the issues that have convulsed us, and rightly so, for the past week and that need to be resolved properly and publicly, the Government and the Houses of the Oireachtas must also get on with the work of delivering for people with disabilities and their families.

Frank Feighan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I join my colleague in calling for the matter of the beds that are supposed to be closed in the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dún Laoghaire to be rectified. I agree with Senator Gavan that these matters should be highlighted. One good news item is that representatives of the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dún Laoghaire met representatives of Roscommon County Hospital in Roscommon in recent weeks as it is planned to have a ten-bed rehabilitation step-down facility from the hospital in Dún Laoghaire in Roscommon County Hospital for the west. That is good news. That is one of three developments that is happening in Roscommon County Hospital. I know from where Senator Gavan is coming on this issue. Hospital beds should not be closed. I have been fighting for people to be admitted to the hospital in Dún Laoghaire. We must get to the bottom of that issue.

The Seanad should highlight a brave and perhaps controversial move by Mike Nesbitt, the leader of the Ulster Unionist Party, who has called for a second preference vote to be given to the SDLP. It is a very significant move in what is sometimes the toxic sectarianism of politics in Northern Ireland. It has probably been done for political gain but it should be marked as a very brave step, and it is a very positive move. Unfortunately, we could have done a sectarian headcount of the politics in Northern Ireland in the past but that has changed. This is a significant move and the Seanad should welcome it. We should welcome the fact that somebody is prepared to stand above the parapet and be counted. That he has been derided on his own side by the DUP and TUV shows the significance of such a statement. It should be welcomed by the Seanad.

Aidan Davitt (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise an issue that came to light in recent days. I read a newspaper report that the Office of Public Works, OPW, will examine developing sites in conjunction with builders and developers. The sites will have to be loaded towards development for social housing, which will be the priority in opening up these landbanks. It is a positive step and is to be welcomed. Pressure should be put on county councils in this respect. It has come back to the OPW to examine the development of State held lands. County councils have masses of landbanks which are not being used and most councils have been sitting on their hands with respect to these lands for the past number of years. Severe pressure should be put on councils to use the landbanks they have. What are they doing to procure houses for social housing development? Pressure should be put on them to advertise and seek joint partners to open up and develop these lands and provide social housing. The figures stack up because the money that is being squandered on social rents is incredible. Where the figures add up, it makes far more sense to build social housing. I would welcome that. I raised this matter in Westmeath County Council two years ago but it did not get much support from the executive at the time. With the new winds of recovery it might be worth fleshing that out and putting pressure on the council. That is where the pressure has to come to bear.

I support what Senator Paul Gavan said about Israel. It is a serious matter. While we are a small nation we have always supported the fight against injustices that have been done throughout the world. I could not follow on and support the second part of his contribution because we would be no better off if we were to bring down the Government. We would have a bigger mess. We should deal with issues at hand. If we do not deal with what is needed for Sergeant McCabe, that will not happen and, as with other crisis, we would be left in limbo.

Michael McDowell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I want to do something unusual and pay the warmest tribute to the Leader for his interventions in yesterday evening's proceedings on three occasions to guarantee my right to speak in depth on three sections of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Bill 2015. I did not agree with the guillotine imposed yesterday and voted against it. Once the debate got under way, the Leader, however, gave me a guarantee that I would be able to recommit sections to ensure they could be examined. On four occasions in yesterday's debate, an attempt was made to stop me recommitting sections by people who just wanted to obliterate debate. I pay tribute to the Leader for bringing in the Members of his party to support me, although he probably did not agree with the points I was making on the sections. That is important for freedom of speech in this House.

Later today, our former colleague in this House, the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Zappone, will answer questions on statements made by her. For professional reasons, I cannot get involved in that debate as many Members will appreciate. I know, however, she is a decent, honest and straightforward Minister who has acted honourably. I will not be present for the debate this evening but I hope her integrity and decency will not be impugned in this House. As many have commented, she seemed to have been the most straightforward participant in yesterday's debate in the other House.

There was some discussion in the Seanad yesterday on another issue, one on which two of my colleagues in the Independent group, Senators Boyhan and Craughwell, had slightly different takes. We are not the judges and the juries of the truthfulness of people, especially when we intend to establish a tribunal of inquiry to deal with them. Will the Leader convey to his colleagues in the Government that there is a gross inconsistency between establishing a public tribunal of inquiry at which senior members of An Garda Síochána will be asked to testify on the subject matter concerning the tribunal-----

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator is well into injury time.

Michael McDowell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

-----and, in effect, swearing up on their dealings with one another? There is a contradiction between that and the Garda Commissioner remaining in office during this period.

Gerard Craughwell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Hear, hear.

Michael McDowell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is another contradiction in those circumstances in that the person who is under investigation is in charge of making discovery, documentation available and so forth on behalf of An Garda Síochána to a tribunal of inquiry. People have to grasp that nettle now.

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Bhí éisteacht an-mhaith ar fad againn ar maidin ag an gcomhchoiste tuaithe maidir le na saoránaigh Éireannacha atá ag cónaí thar lear.

We had a good and detailed presentation at the rural affairs committee on diaspora issues and Irish citizens abroad from Mr. Ciarán Staunton of the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform, who is well-known around these Houses, Ms Karen McHugh of Safe Home Ireland - Emigrant Support Service, Mr. Michael McMahon, who is lobbying on behalf of families of the undocumented Irish in the United States and a returned Irish citizen, Ms Maureen Sullivan. They chronicled for the committee once more the practical issues faced by any returning emigrant such as national reserve entitlements, car insurance, access to driver licences, opening bank accounts, applying for loans, education for themselves and their children etc.

They also alluded to the interdepartmental committee on diaspora affairs, launched in 2015 at the global Irish civic forum. It was to meet quarterly but apparently the last time it met was in November 2016. There were to be reports of the different meetings but today's witnesses said no reports have been made available. They voiced a huge frustration at a lack of impetus from the Government on the issues they are raising. They were critical of the lack of engagement and flexibility on the part of Departments and State agencies when it comes to solving many of the issues.

I note the Minister of State with responsibility for the diaspora, Deputy Joe McHugh, has been able to go to London twice. He has also been in Kenya, Uganda and San Francisco but he still has not been able to come to us in the Seanad to discuss diaspora affairs. That is not good enough. I have asked for this debate on many occasions and have been patient so far. With the implications of the new presidency in the US and Brexit, we need the Minister of State into the Seanad as soon as possible. I will not accept any more excuses on the issue from the Leader. If the Minister of State does not come in, I will propose amendments to the Order of Business for him to attend the House until he does. I implore the Leader to invite him to the House. I note he is in the Dáil this morning, so he is obviously in the Houses and he knows his way around. Can we get him in as soon as possible?

Tim Lombard (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Last weekend's edition of The Sunday Business Postand yesterday's edition of the Irish Examinerraised issues about the Eli Lilly plant in Kinsale in County Cork. It is one of the major employers in Kinsale, employing several hundred people and has been there 35 years. A major planned expansion of €200 million has been postponed because of the America First policy that Mr. Trump proposed after meeting the heads of major pharmaceutical firms in the US. We have had much talk about Brexit and we have focused on it. We now need to focus on foreign direct investment from the US.

Cork Harbour is a hub for pharmaceutical companies, many of which have American-based ownership. It is a great concern for the people of Cork that the America First policy promoted by the US President will have a knock-on effect on foreign direct investment such as the postponement of the expansion at the Eli Lilly plant.

It is a key issue the Taoiseach will need to raise when he goes to the White House. It is about foreign direct investment, jobs and hubs like Cork which have built themselves on pharmaceutical industries. We need to ensure continuing investment. Companies like Eli Lilly are the backbone of this. I hope that when the Taoiseach goes to the White House, he will raise these issues with Mr. Trump. If he does not, the knock-on effect in locations like Cork will be significant. We need to get a handle on Mr. Trump's proposals and prevent this issue from stopping foreign direct investment with subsequent knock-on effects.

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I want to highlight the issue of the Saplings school for children with autism and complex needs in Carlow. As was seen in this week's edition of The Nationalist, parents have had to come out to fight for their children's school. This school was started in 2007 by parents with autistic children. In 2010, the Department took over the school but its accommodation is too small with problems with sewage and damp.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

This issue would be more suitable as a Commencement matter.

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

These are issues involving disabilities, however.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator will get more of a chance of an answer from the Minister if she raises it as a Commencement matter than from the Leader.

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I understand that but it is serious. I have raised the issues of Tír na nÓg and Holy Angels respite and day care services three times but got no answer from the Minister. I now have brought up Saplings but will get no answer. Will the Minister come into the House to address these issues?

I am getting no answers. The Tír na nÓg service is still closed, which is a disgrace.

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Fianna Fáil still supports the Government's policies. Fair play to the Senator.

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Children with disabilities are being forgotten.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We hear the Senator.

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I know the Leader will say I have raised these issues before.I am asking that the three issues relating to children with disabilities be addressed together by the Minister. I am not blaming the Seanad for this. I have asked before that the matters be addressed together because they relate to the same area. However, I have been informed that they have to be addressed separately. There is no need for that. I ask the Leader to invite the Minister to come in and address the issues relating to Tír na nÓg, Holy Angels, Saplings and money.

Frank Feighan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We ran out of money in 2010.

Rónán Mullen (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Tréaslaím leis an Seanadóir Keith Swanick as an méid a dúirt se maidir le cúrsaí árachais agus an cás a tharla i gContae Liatroma inar d'fhulaing fear a chabraigh le duine eile. There is a real issue regarding the good Samaritan case that arose in County Leitrim. I commend Senator Swanick on raising it. I had planned to intervene in it myself. There is a concept in contract law whereby contracts can be void, voidable or unenforceable where they are contrary to public policy. A significant public policy issue arises where an insurance company would impose a loading on an insured party arising out of circumstances where that party had not been at fault and, more importantly, was acting in the public interest. It should not stand that the man in this case, Mr. Egan, should face not just a write-off in respect of his car but also a future loading on his policy. We need to hear from the Government on that issue. I suggest that there may be a need for legislation, or some amendment to existing legislation, that would ensure that an insurance company could not impose a penalty or a disadvantage where the circumstances of a claim involve no fault on the part of the insured and where they arise our of actions reasonably taken to protect public health and safety. There is a real issue here whereby insurance companies must be mindful of the public good. We spoke last night about the concept of the law needing to promote the common good. It seems that this is a classic case involving the common good. We need to hear from the Government on how it proposes to dialogue with the insurance industry in respect of cases of this nature and on whether legislation is necessary and possible.

I would also like to hear from the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade regarding Ireland's diplomatic efforts to address the suffering of civilians as a result of the conflict in Yemen. The United Nations has appealed for immediate international support to help with the worsening humanitarian crisis there. Yemen is one of the Arab world's poorest countries. Children, men and women are starving and some 12 million people need food, water and medicine to save and sustain their lives. The UN has warned that famine is now a real possibility this year. Ireland has pledged another €2 million to Yemen. That brings our total humanitarian funding to over €4 million. I will be very brief, but I think it is important. Whereas the injection of a State donation is to be welcomed, it is also important that we consider the role of the United States and Britain in this conflict. Given the contacts that our Government will have with the US Government in the coming weeks, it is important that we raise the question of what has happened in Yemen with President Trump in the White House. One might consider a recent report in The Guardian about how weapons exports from Britain to the Royal Saudi Air Force continued even after an airstrike on a funeral hall led to 140 people being killed. Irish taxpayers-----

Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

They go through Shannon Airport.

Rónán Mullen (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

-----are supporting Irish Aid packages. It would be prudent, to say the least - I will conclude with this - to accelerate diplomatic contacts with coalition forces involved in the Yemeni war to prevent further suffering among the civilian population. We should certainly respond with money but we also need to use whatever bit of influence we have diplomatically.

Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Should we stop trying to bomb them?

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the 18 Senators who raised matters of importance. I neglected yesterday to wish Members a happy St. Valentine's day. On behalf of the House-----

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We did not sleep.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

-----I wish to thank Senator McDowell for killing St. Valentine's night for many of us.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In fairness, the matter that we discussed yesterday was of absolute importance. I commend the women, in particular, who were involved in the campaign. I think we did a very good day's work despite our different views on the Bill. It is a very positive Bill. I thank Senators for the co-operation yesterday.

Rónán Mullen (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It was not only women Members who were involved.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I accept that. That is a fair comment.

Rónán Mullen (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I was the first to mention the issue in this House.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senators Mark Daly, Boyhan, Conway-Walsh, Bacik, Craughwell and McDowell referred to issues relating to Maurice McCabe, policing and the inquiry. It is important to reiterate that we in the House are not judge and jury. We are not going to sit in judgment. I accept that we, as Members of the Oireachtas, have a role to play in holding the Executive and State organisations to account. However, this matter is predominantly about the lives of a Sergeant McCabe, his wife, Lorraine, and their family.

Gerard Craughwell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

And other families too.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

If the Senator will let me finish, it is also about other whistleblowers and how we can ensure that we have better model of policing whereby, as I said yesterday, there will be accountability. The important point, in my personal opinion and in my view as Leader of the House, is that Sergeant McCabe and his family should receive and attain justice and truth. That is why a public inquiry is being established. That is why the terms of references will come to us this week or sometime next week. I cannot answer that question this morning because we have not yet received an answer. It is very important that we underline the point that the Taoiseach made yesterday - it is something we all stand for or for which we should stand - that the presumption of innocence stands for every citizen. That is important. It is equally important that the tribunal gets to the truth and that justice is seen to be delivered. I will not stand for the rank hypocrisy of members of the Sinn Féin Party making particular comments in this House and in the Dáil today when, for decades, they have been nothing other than obstructionist in the context of members of An Garda Síochána. I welcome their newfound interest in law and order. I hope they will stand up for it all the time from now on and that they will join me in working to find out the truth regarding the disappeared, the killing-----

Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Is the Leader directing this at me?

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am addressing the House. I am responding to the Order of Business. My job is to respond to the Order of Business.

Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Leader is not doing so. He is just insulting us. That is all he is doing. The Leader is not dealing with the issues at all.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We will have the Leader, without interruption.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The truth hurts.

Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

So it does.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Sinn Féin Party collapsed the-----

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Leader, may I suggest-----

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

My job, as Leader, is to respond to the Order of Business.

Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Leader is trying to defend the indefensible.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I take copious notes of what Members said. I was not singling the Senator out and I am sorry he feels that way, but I am referring to his contribution. If the truth hurts, then he has to reflect upon that.

Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is the truth we want.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Then the Senator might talk to the people who have knowledge of the killing of Detective Garda Donohoe in Dundalk. She might talk about that.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We are not opening up another debate at this stage.

Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What is the Leader talking about?

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Sinn Féin Party collapsed the Executive in the North.

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

On a point of order, I ask the Leader to retract that remark. He has absolutely no evidence whatsoever.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I asked a question.

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He is trying to make a connection between Sinn Féin and Detective Garda Donohoe-----

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I asked a question.

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Leader is absolutely out of order.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I asked a question.

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He is scraping the bottom of the barrel because of the shambles that his own Government is in.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I asked a question.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senators are all entitled to make political charges regardless of whether I like it. The Leader, without interruption.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Sinn Féin collapsed the Executive in the North. It wants to collapse the Government down here-----

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Leader should address the Order of Business.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

-----and we will not let it do that.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Leader should address the Order of Business.

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Leader is a disgrace. The Government is a shambles. The Leader should be embarrassed.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We will not let it do that.

Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Leader does not like having an Opposition. That is the problem.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We are going to stick to the Order of Business.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am all for an Opposition that is constructive and that is in favour of reform and progressive politics, unlike what some members of Sinn Féin have to offer. If I may put on record, a Leas-Chathaoirligh-----

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

No. The Leader should stick to the Order of Business.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am replying to the Order of Business. This Government has established the Policing Authority and GSOC and it has protected whistleblowers. All this was done by this Government and that which preceded it. If the Senators want to have a debate on that, let us have one. I am all for it.

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Maurice McCabe certainly does not feel protected.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As I said at the beginning of my contribution, we must seek to achieve justice and truth so that we can bring this awful saga to an end for the McCabe family and for those who are involved in policing.

We need to reflect on the interesting point made by Senator McDowell. I would be happy to convey his remarks to members of the Government.

Senator Mark Daly asked about the Recognition of Irish Sign Language for the Deaf Community Bill 2016 and the Corporate Manslaughter (No. 2) Bill 2016. He has been in contact with Ms Orla Murray and others in my office. We have been in contact with the Departments. We are not holding up those Bills at our end. We will work with Senator Daly to ensure they are fit for purpose and are workable and implementable.

I agree with Senator Daly that the so-called attempt at humour last Monday night was an insult to members of the deaf community and those who are disabled. It was purported to be in the name of humour but it was anything but humorous. All of us who were at the meeting were outraged about what happened. It is important for us to work together to make progress with the Bills sponsored by Senator Daly, particularly the Recognition of Irish Sign Language for the Deaf Community Bill 2016.

Senators Boyhan, Bacik and Higgins spoke about the failure to spend €4 million in funding that was provided for migrants. I do not have the answer to their questions but I will come back to them when I do.

Senator Craughwell raised the issue of timing. I am happy to take the eight minutes off the group spokespersons and give five minutes to each speaker so that more people can get involved in the debate if they wish to do so. Ample provision of 90 minutes has been made for the debate. Having spoken to Senator Boyhan, who expressed his view on this matter on the Order of Business, I understand he is happy with the 90-minute timeframe.

I read Senator Craughwell's article in Phoenixmagazine about the composition of the Seanad, but I did not agree with much of what he had to say.

Gerard Craughwell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am delighted the Leader was able to read it.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator is part of a group and it is up to that group to determine who speaks in what hierarchy or position.

Gerard Craughwell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

No, I think I was making a new reality.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am happy to work with everyone regarding timings. If Senators feel we should give group spokespersons five minutes rather than eight minutes, I will be happy to do that.

Senator Higgins referred to a Bill that is being debated in the European Parliament today. I might be wrong in my understanding that it has already been passed.

Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is due to be voted on. The European Parliament may have passed it by now.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We will be happy to refer this matter to the Departments in line with the Senator's remarks. It is a question for the Joint Committee on Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, to which the Senator referred, to consider how it can debate this matter as a sectoral committee.

Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I would like to clarify that I made a request for the House to debate the matter.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I cannot allow the Senator to intervene while the Leader is responding.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I will be happy to ask the Minister to come to the House, but I think the committee might be the best location for a debate on this issue.

Senator Bacik raised the specific issue of policing. I will be happy to invite the Minister for Justice and Equality to address the House in that regard.

Senators Hopkins, Gavan and Feighan spoke about the closure of beds at the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dún Laoghaire. It is open to any Member, irrespective of his or her party affiliation, if any, to come to the House to raise any matter he or she considers to be important for him or her to raise. Those of us who are familiar with the health sector will be aware that after the Minister issues an order directing how money is to be allocated, the spending of that money is administered by hospital management and the HSE. The Minister might not be specifically responsible for the closure of beds. Senator Hopkins made a good point about the closure of beds when she said it is about fast and timely treatment and access to care. Senator Feighan mentioned that Roscommon County Hospital is to become a rehabilitation centre for the west. We all join him in welcoming that.

Senators Swanick, Feighan and Mullen referred to the case of Paul Egan. This good Samaritan should certainly not be obstructed by the State or the laws of the land. Senator Mullen is right when he says we might need to look at whether a lacuna exists in the law in this area. I am not familiar with the legal position. What has happened to Paul Egan should not happen to somebody who acts in good faith to help a fellow citizen. Perhaps we can ask the Minister to come to the House to consider this matter. If the Senators take a joint approach to raising it as a Commencement matter, it might be a way of discussing it. Maybe it can be raised at committee level. I thank the Senators for bringing this issue to the House.

Senator Byrne highlighted the changes being made at Bank of Ireland. We have no direct influence on that. There is a movement towards peopleless banks or, in the case of telephone banking, contactless banks. This is something we need to take up with the bank on behalf of the Senator.

I did not mean to be disrespectful to Senator Gavan while he was speaking. I was reading a note I had received. As he knows, I share his view regarding Palestine. I would be happy to invite the Minister, Deputy Flanagan, to come to the House to discuss this matter. I have received the same correspondence to which the Senator referred. This is an important issue, not least in the context of what the Trump Administration could potentially do or is threatening to carry out. I think there is a vital role for Ireland and the EU as a whole in this respect. This matter was also mentioned by Senator Davitt. It is important for us to recognise the need to have an honest debate on the role of Israel and on how it interacts and sees itself across the world stage. Equally, we should debate the Palestinian people. I would be happy to have such a debate in this House.

Senator Dolan raised matters of disability and mental health again. It is important to recognise that he is a champion of these issues. I believe he has been in contact with various Departments. I will be happy to help him to expedite the situation he raised here this morning. It is disappointing that the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities has not been ratified. I hope this will be done promptly.

I agree with Senator Davitt there is on onus and an obligation on the OPW, county councils and developers - both public private partnerships and private developers - to work to expedite idle sites around the country that can be used to provide social housing, as in the case the Senator outlined, or to develop various social and community care facilities. It is important for the Minister to come to the House for such a debate.

Aidan Davitt (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leader.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I have responded to the points made by Senator McDowell about Maurice McCabe in the context of the policing inquiry.

I assure Senator Ó Clochartaigh that I had genuinely hoped to bring the Minister of State, Deputy McHugh, to the House this week or last week. His diary had to be changed when an issue arose. I am working with him to try to get a date before St. Patrick's Day. I appreciate the Senator's frustration. To be fair, the Minister was due to come in but he had to cancel because of a diary commitment.

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We have heard that before.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I will endeavour to try to get him in because this is an important issue.

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I will bring it up on every Order of Business until he comes in.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator is entitled to do so. I am trying to get the Minister of State to come to the House. I cannot grab his diary and make him come in on a certain date. He is a Minister of State of the Government and if events-----

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He needs to show more respect to the House.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I accept that. To be fair to the Minister of State, he is doing a good job, as the Senator outlined in his contribution. He has travelled across the world to represent our country.

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He has not met the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Similarly, the Minister, Deputy Flanagan, raised the question of the undocumented Irish with the Trump Administration when he was in Washington last week. We should take a collective common approach to this issue because we want to see our people looked after and treated properly. I will endeavour to have the Minister of State come to the House as soon as I can.

Senator Lombard is right when he says that Mr. Trump's America First policy has paused the planned €200 million expansion of the Eli Lilly plant in County Cork. I understand from talking to other executives around the country that they are looking at how they will spend money. Perhaps they will not be allowed to spend money. That is why I think the St. Patrick's Day visit to the White House is so important. It will enable the Government, through the Taoiseach and other Ministers, and IDA Ireland to outline clearly to the US Administration the import of the impact their decisions have not just in Ireland but across the world.

Senator Murnane O'Connor raised the important matter of disability. At a time when we are spending more money than ever on health and education, we need to put physical disabilities and autism on the priority list. I share the Senator's view regarding the matters she outlined. Perhaps we should talk about how we can make progress with these matters. This is not just about the school mentioned by the Senator.

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

No, it is about all schools.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is about other schools as well. In fairness, the Senator is right in what she has said.

Senator Mullen spoke about the important matter of Yemen. He acknowledged that we have spent €4 million and recognised that we need to keep up our diplomatic efforts to protect the lives of people who are innocent of any conflict and should be supported. I will be happy to ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to come to the House on this matter.

If Members wish, I will agree to amend the Order of Business to give each group spokesperson five minutes and thereby free up more time for other speakers. The Minister is coming in for 90 minutes. We must be cognisant that she needs to be present in the Dáil for the motion of confidence in the Government. We have acceded to Senator Conway-Walsh's request for a debate in the House this evening. If Senators are in agreement on the change from eight minutes to five minutes per spokesperson, I am happy to facilitate that.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Leader has proposed an amendment to the Order of Business: "That the contributions of group spokespersons on the statements of clarification on statements made by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs should not exceed five minutes."

Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We agree to the amended proposal.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am happy to make the change.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Is that agreed? Agreed.