Lisa Chambers (Fianna Fail)
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The Order of Business is No. 1, motion regarding Regulation of Providers of Building Works and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2022 (Appointment of Registration Body) Order 2022, back from committee, to be taken on conclusion of the Order of Business without debate; No. 2, Finance Bill 2022 - Report and Final Stages, to be taken at 1.45 p.m. and the proceedings thereon shall, if not previously concluded, be brought to a conclusion at 3.45 p.m. by the putting of one question from the Chair, which shall, in relation to recommendations, include only those set down or accepted by the Government; No. 3, motion regarding early signature of the Finance Bill 2022, to be taken on the conclusion of No. 2 without debate; No. 4, Credit Union (Amendment) Bill 2022 - Committee and Remaining Stages, to be taken at 3.45 p.m. or on the conclusion of No. 3, whichever is the later, and the proceedings thereon shall, if not previously concluded, be brought to a conclusion at 4.30 p.m. by the putting of one question from the Chair, which shall, in relation to amendments, include only those set down or accepted by the Government; No. 5, Social Welfare Bill 2022 - Committee and Remaining Stages, to be taken at 4.30 p.m., or on conclusion of No. 4, whichever is the later, and the proceedings thereon shall, if not previously concluded, be brought to a conclusion at 8.30 p.m. by the putting of one question from the Chair, which shall, in relation to amendments, include only those set down or accepted by the Government; No. 6, motion regarding early signature of the Social Welfare Bill 2022, to be taken on the conclusion of No. 5 without debate; and No. 7, Private Members' business, Quality in Public Procurement (Contract Preparation and Award Criteria) Bill 2021 – Report and Final Stages, to be taken at 8.30 p.m., or on the conclusion of No. 6, whichever is the later, and to adjourn after one hour if not previously concluded.

Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
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From the Cistercian College in Roscrea, County Tipperary, I welcome teachers, Anthony Leahy and Jamie Dooley. They and all the students are most welcome. I hope they enjoy their time in Leinster House. I will break with tradition here and call Senator Norris, the Father of the House, first. He was given a big round of applause for his long service to the House yesterday during the sitting to mark our centenary. I thank him in person for his long service to the Seanad and to the State. We greatly appreciate it, as did all the former and previous Members there yesterday. I call Senator Norris.

David Norris (Independent)
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I thank the Cathaoirleach. I greatly appreciate his kind words. I was not at yesterday's proceedings because I am in five vulnerable categories with regard to Covid-19, so I am afraid of crowds.

The first issue, of two, which I want to raise is that of Qatar. It is in the news now because of the football being played there, a tournament which the country secured by bribery. There is no question or doubt about this. The whole process was corrupt. Qatar has an appalling record on human rights. The stadiums were built by migrant workers, hundreds of whom died without any acknowledgement by the Qataris. Those workers were kept in conditions of slavery. I refer as well to the complete abolition of any rights whatsoever for gay people in Qatar. It is a disgrace that FIFA went along with having this tournament in Qatar. We have now learned as well of Qataris being involved in the bribery of members of the European Parliament. When is this going to stop? I am not sure if we have a Qatari ambassador here, but if we do, he should be called in and given a real reprimand.

My second issue is that of bins. I am old enough to remember when we actually had nice big bins of firm quality in Dublin. For some unknown reason, Dublin City Council, decided to privatise the collection of bins. I well remember, as I am sure many other Members of the House do, when rival tenderers for this job routinely burnt out each other's collection vans. It was like something we would read about concerning the Mafia in New York city. The public are forced to buy flimsy plastic bags that are of no earthly use whatsoever. The seagulls have a field day ripping them apart with their beaks and spreading the rubbish all over the pavements and the streets. This is appalling. This type of situation is recognised as a serious problem in cities such as Amsterdam and the authorities there are attempting to address the problem. I request that the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Deputy Eamon Ryan, come into the House. I also ask that he contact the people involved with the bins and attempt to reach some kind of decent resolution. I raise this issue because, to be quite honest with the House, I used to be proud of being a Dubliner, but now I am ashamed because of the condition of the streets. We now have the James Joyce Centre, which draws many tourists to North Great George's Street. It is a sad state of affairs when we see them looking at its terrible condition, with rubbish all over the place. Shame, shame, shame on Dublin City Council.

Seán Kyne (Fine Gael)
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I compliment the Cathaoirleach and the team on the wonderful events held yesterday to mark the centenary of the Seanad's first sitting. It was a tremendous success. There was a good representation of former Members and they certainly enjoyed the occasion. I compliment the Cathaoirleach on the initiative, all those involved in the Houses of the Oireachtas and the Seanad team here. I note that Deputy Clarke asked the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, in the Dáil on 2 June whether he was satisfied with staff appointments in Inland Fisheries Ireland, IFI, and the methods of interview used. The Deputy got the usual response from the Minister's officials, in that the matter had nothing to do with them and was for IFI. It is this type of evasion and obfuscation that forces us to speak under privilege in the Chamber on issues of concern. I have a document - many others, particularly in Galway and Mayo, also have it - that was sent to officials in the Department. It shows that the Minister and the board of IFI should not and could not be satisfied with the way in which at least one senior appointment was made, although I believe there were others. I know that the Department has had this document for some time. It contains a number of text messages as well as emails to and from private email addresses relating to this senior appointment. There is documented evidence of skullduggery and manipulation of the highest order. It is inconceivable that the person involved could still be allowed to preside over further appointments. Staff members of IFI would have a legitimate expectation that, if they worked hard, did their work and involved themselves in professional development, training, etc., they would get promotions up the ladder if they sought them. I am afraid, however, that any employee who reads this document could not have any trust or confidence in the current appointment process. I am not saying it was always thus, but it is certainly the case at the moment.

The Bradley report expressed confidence in the board of IFI. I am putting the board members on notice that they will be required to step up to the plate, show that the confidence placed in them by the report is merited, and discharge their responsibilities relating to this and other serious matters outlined in this and other documents.

I have made several contributions in the Seanad calling for an inquiry into the workings of the IFI organisation. I am still calling for such an inquiry. There is further compelling evidence in this document to support my call. However, the matter of the appointment to jobs is for the board alone, as it relates to the actions of the chief executive officer, who is answerable to the board. Will the Deputy Leader contact the board and chair of IFI and ask them to do their job and investigate the issues that are in their hands?

Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fail)
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I join Senator Kyne in complimenting the Cathaoirleach and all those who worked on yesterday's wonderful occasion. It was fascinating and fantastic. It was great to see so many former Senators back in Leinster House for the occasion. That was a nice touch.

This is a significant week in terms of planning and development, as the Government is going to approve the planning and development Bill today. I hope it will move quickly into law. This should probably have been done years ago. The Bill is not being approved to suit developers or speculators. Rather, it is to suit the ordinary people I have been meeting for many years who have been refused planning permission on their land to build a house. It is to suit the development of houses that are needed in the middle of a crisis. We have to do this.

There has been a great deal of false and misleading material on the matter of judicial reviews, but I understand that they will not be removed. Instead, there will be strict time limits on them. This is right. As the Taoiseach has stated, these changes are comprehensive and must come about. We have to make them, particularly if we are to develop housing. Too many housing projects are being held up.

Consider the delays in offshore wind energy. We need wind energy, particularly in the current crisis. Thankfully, we have not had an amber alert yet, but it could easily happen if this weather continues, even though the outlook provided by those with responsibility for this area seems fairly positive. We have to move quickly with offshore wind projects, but planning issues are holding them up for too long.

An Bord Pleanála has not been fit for purpose for a number of years. It must be changed. We must gear up, get our planning system working perfectly and respect people who want to object to planning applications. I am not saying that people do not have that right, and the Minister has made it clear that people will have the right to object to planning applications. Regardless of who is in power, though, if we want to reach our housing targets, make progress in planning and allow people to have confidence in the planning system, these changes must take place. I accept the right of the Opposition or anyone else to express reservations about the Bill, but it is the right thing to do in the long run. I hope that we move swiftly, that we have a better planning system and that our local authorities have more of a say.

Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
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A Chathaoirligh, ba mhaith liom mo chomhghairdeas agus mo bhuíochas a chur in iúl maidir leis an suí speisialta a bhí againn inné. I acknowledge our special ceremonial sitting yesterday. It was a thoughtful occasion and it was good to be among so many friends. I did not get the chance to say it yesterday, but it was great to have musical accompaniment to the day's events. I wonder whether we could get an uilleann piper for every sitting. Would that not be nice?

Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
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We will work on that.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
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Is the Senator going to give us a song?

Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
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Do not tempt me. One never knows what a new Cathaoirleach might bring to the table.

Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
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We will get the choir going.

Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
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It is the season, I suppose.

In recent days, we have once again seen fairly chaotic scenes at Dublin Airport. It seems that we are discussing more regularly situations at the airport that are having an adverse impact on staff and travellers. We are an island nation and we rely heavily on our airports and aviation infrastructure daily. At this time of the year, many journeys are made in and out of the country, particularly as people return home for Christmas.

No one is suggesting that we cannot be met with unique or adverse weather events, but I have not heard a word from the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, about what he did with the airport in the lead up to and following these adverse weather conditions. One would have expected a Green Party Minister to be conscious of the impacts of adverse climate conditions on our society. We need to hear from the Minister about what action he has taken and intends to take regarding the airport to ensure that people are able to travel as freely as possible. No one is expecting or calling for miracles, but we have all travelled around the world enough to know that, in places like Canada, the temperature can drop to below -20 oC but people can still get flights. One would have expected that the airport, under the leadership of the Minister, would have been able to ensure the same by now. There is a danger of people being left to flounder. That would be unfair and unjust at any time of the year, but as we approach Christmas, its unfairness would be particularly felt by those impacted.

I appreciate that now is a difficult time to try to have statements on this issue, but the situation warrants it. It cannot go on like this. We all know Einstein's definition of madness, that being, doing the same thing time and again and expecting different results. We cannot just keep coming into this Chamber, nor can colleagues in the other Chamber, and saying that there is another situation impacting travellers through the airport. Something needs to be done quickly. We know when winter comes. We also know that, given the impact of the climate emergency, there will be other adverse weather events. We need to plan for those appropriately and ensure that people have the most streamlined and best way possible to fly into and out of this island. As difficult and tight as it might be, it is important that we try to have statements with the Minister before we break for Christmas and hear what action he intends to take.

Mark Wall (Labour)
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I wish to be associated with the comments of various Senators about Seanad 100 yesterday. For many of us, it was a special occasion. I thank the Cathaoirleach and all the staff involved for arranging it.

I wish to raise two issues with the Deputy Leader, the first of which is the shortage of medication throughout the State. In several recent conversations I had with my local pharmacist, he told me that his concerns about this issue had increased in the past number of months. Finding it impossible to source prescribed medication, he finds himself more and more on the phone with GPs in my town of Athy asking whether he can substitute it with another. In recent days, a growing number of pharmacists have called on the Government to put in place a serious shortage protocol, which I am told would allow pharmacists to dispense alternative medications to patients, given the supply difficulties that many are experiencing with more commonly used prescription drugs.It appears from reading and listening to statements by several pharmacists in recent days that many drugs for front-line treatments are currently not available. Suppliers report to pharmacists that it could be mid-February or even March before such drugs are available again. It has been reported in the last couple of days that 187 different medications are currently out of stock, including drugs used to treat cancer, blood pressure and infections. I would appreciate if time was given to debate this important matter with the Minister for Health as a matter of urgency.

Secondly, I welcome the signing by the Minister of State with responsibility for local government and planning at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Deputy Peter Burke, of new regulations that will require a changing places toilet to be included in certain buildings. The Leader will know, as will other Members, that I have raised this matter a number of times in this House after being contacted by a number of families who are being forced to change their loved ones in the backs of cars or on cold floors of unsuitable toilet facilities. In his statement, the Minister of State reports that up to 80 extra changing places toilets could be provided nationwide each year in buildings such as schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centres and hotels. It is currently estimated that there are only 19 changing places facilities in Ireland, so an additional 80 per year would be a great improvement for many families.

Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
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Hear, hear.

Mark Wall (Labour)
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Additional changing places facilities will allow many families to plan for family days out and family events that so many of us currently take for granted. This would be a huge and important step forward. It has been welcomed by Changing Places Ireland and by many families to whom I have spoken. I thank the Minister of State for taking this step. It will make such a difference to so many families.

Lynn Ruane (Independent)
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I am not sure if I will speak on the Order of Business again this week, so I thank the staff and everyone in the Oireachtas for their work all year and their help and support. I draw the Cathaoirleach's attention to how we can often take positions as being set. Over the past two and a half years, the Cathaoirleach has shown what it is like to be active in a role, to do other things and to take other initiatives. Yesterday was one part of that but, for the last two and a half years, we have seen many different occasions and events. There are paintings on the wall outside regarding the higher female representation. Having sat on the committee with the Cathaoirleach, I can see how much he participates in the role beyond what people think it is. I am setting this up for the next person who speaks. I thank the Cathaoirleach for setting the standard on how to be fully active in a role and not just to sit back and say that the job description is that he sits in the chair, does Commencement matters and is here for votes. It can be so much more than that. It can be such a big role and can be what we make it. I acknowledge that.

This Thursday, many of us will go into Mountjoy to play a GAA match.

Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
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Fair play.

Lynn Ruane (Independent)
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I know I usually organise soccer matches, but this week, there will be a GAA match. I thank politicians for their participation all year when I have reached out to them to do community events with me, whether in the prison or in the community. It helps to break down barriers. Sometimes, we think of other groups without really knowing about them because we have never really spent any time around them. In the last few years, we have played against teams with players who have struggled with addiction or mental health issues throughout their lives. We have played in Tallaght and Mountjoy. We played in an inner city youth centre once. This week, we will play in Mountjoy again. We were beaten terribly in the last soccer match. I hope all those rural people who had greater access to the GAA than most Dublin folk might win us back some sort of title this week.

On the topic of prison, and men within the prison system, I ask the Leader for statements on prison reform early in the new year. Many politicians who play this week will have an opportunity to engage with the men and to hear about their lives, hopes, aspirations, what they want for the future, and how difficult that transition can be from prison back into life, as well as the isolation, institutionalisation and hardship that can go with that. Maybe in the new year, we can mark our engagement with them this year with some statements on prison reform.

Erin McGreehan (Fianna Fail)
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I congratulate the Cathaoirleach and the Seanad Office on the incredible work that was done to celebrate yesterday. It was a great day. It was important to celebrate 100 years of this great House and its work, with over 300 Members over the last century doing their best, coming in here every day to try to have an impact on legislation and to make themselves heard.

I want to raise the serious issue of the emergency department in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda. There is a huge population in the north east and the hospital is not fit for purpose. It was not fit for purpose ten years ago and it is certainly not okay now. There is a crisis in the north east at the minute when it comes to Navan emergency department and Drogheda emergency department. We need far more resources and a bigger emergency department. I spent seven hours in there with my son a couple of weeks ago. One should not be afraid to go to an emergency department or be in the full of one's health to be able to survive it, which is the current situation in Drogheda. We are at a crisis point. We need far more resources and a significant action plan.

On a positive note, I congratulate Louth County Council for a fabulous, important initiative to celebrate a great Irish woman and north Louth woman, St. Brigid. She was an environmentalist, a goddess and a saint. She was one for everybody. 2023 will see us celebrate the very first public holiday in her honour and 2024 will mark 1,500 years since her passing. It is important that this north Louth woman is remembered by the Brigid 1500 programme. It is an important initiative and a fantastic two years of celebration. There will be live concerts featuring local musicians and choirs. The library and county museum will run workshops. There will be a fantastic opportunity for local artists or art groups to have community residency, for which a call will be put out in January. There will be a great opportunity to come to north Louth for the beautiful art and the walking tours. As an Erin Brigid, I was proud to see the Brigid 1500 programme be launched by Louth County Council yesterday. It was an important day. I congratulate them.

Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
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I thank Senator Erin Brigid McGreehan and call Senator Burke.

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
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I thank the Cathaoirleach and congratulate him and the staff of the House for organising the magnificent celebration of 100 years of Seanad Éireann.

I support Senator Seán Kyne in his calls for the board of Inland Fisheries Ireland, IFI, to step up to the plate, especially since it now has the backing of the Bradley report, to address the many issues he has raised this morning.

Sharon Keogan (Independent)
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Hear, hear.

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
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Senator Kyne and I have raised several issues over the last six months relating to Inland Fisheries Ireland. We have asked for the Minister to come into the House and for the Bradley report to be discussed here. We have not succeeded with any of it. If we do not have some action in the early part of the next session, we will have no choice but to bring forward a Private Members' motion about Inland Fisheries Ireland. I am certainly not happy about what is happening there.

Our institutions are important to us, including the Dáil, Seanad and European Parliament. I congratulate the Belgian police for outing some of the issues that seem to have taken place in the European Parliament. As we all know, Brussels is the second biggest lobbying city in the world. I would hate to think that the integrity of the European Parliament is being damaged and undermined by some people accepting large sums of money. I think that at the earliest opportunity, we should have a discussion on the European Parliament in this House. We passed laws in this Chamber to give extra powers to the European Parliament, as did Dáil Éireann. It would be a retrograde step if what is perceived by the media to be happening is taking place and if Members of the European Parliament are taking large sums of money, for whatever reason. We do not fully know why. Early in the next session, we should have a debate on the powers that we have given to the European Parliament and what it is doing.

Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
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I welcome Senator Tom Clonan who is here in the Gallery with his sister Marie Clonan and their grandmother who is from County Kerry. That explains a lot. I call Senator Buttimer.

Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
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I join other Members in congratulating the Cathaoirleach and all members of staff on the very suitable and excellent commemorative event yesterday in Leinster House to commemorate Seanad 100.

Senators, including me as recently as last week, have raised the issue of the drug, Kaftrio. I ask that the Minister for Health come to the House and present an update to us. That would be opportune because there is still an issue with access to treatment for young people with cystic fibrosis. I will not read it to the House but I have an email from a family in Cork concerned about their daughter and the issue of the HSE and Vertex still not reaching an agreement. It is important that progress is made on that. I ask that the Minister come to the House as a matter of urgency on that.

I also raise the issue of catering on Irish Rail's Cork-Dublin intercity service and at Kent Station. I welcome that Cork Airport will have a new café, called Lemon Pepper, with locally produced foods. It is long overdue. That gives me the segue into the fact that AMT Coffee in Cork's Kent Station has gone into administration. This means the travelling public cannot go to a café or coffee shop in the train station to buy coffee, tea or whatever they wish to buy to take on board a train. I heard Barry Kenny of Irish Rail on Newstalk yesterday. It is inexcusable that Irish Rail still does not have an on-board catering service for passengers on intercity trains when we consider, as reported in an investigative piece by Ken Foxe in the Irish Examiner, that Irish Rail acquired €390,000 clamping 4,300 cars at €120 each. The company has money that it can use to franchise or subsidise. If the Minister for Transport could come to the House to present an update on that important matter, it would be opportune.

Sharon Keogan (Independent)
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It is wonderful to have Senator Norris in the House with us. He brings such colour to the place. It is always lovely to see him. It was lovely yesterday that people mentioned him warmly and frequently during the commemorative sitting of Seanad 100 yesterday. It was also lovely to see the retired Members of this House yesterday. We should never forget those men and women who came in here before us and the contribution they have made to the State. I also congratulate the Cathaoirleach, Senator Daly, and everybody else involved in yesterday’s commemorative event. It was a wonderful event. I was delighted to be a part of it.

I move that No. 129(4) on the Order Paper be taken before No. 1, without debate. The motion tabled by our group last month reads: "That Seanad Éireann calls on the Minister for Health to name the new National Children’s Hospital after Dr. Kathleen Lynn, noting her contribution as Chief Medical Officer in the Irish Citizen Army, and her role in establishing St. Ultan’s Hospital, one of the most important centres for paediatric healthcare in the early years of the Irish State." This would be a fitting tribute as we look back over the decade of centenaries and look forward to a new era in children's healthcare in Ireland. With Senator Fitzpatrick’s briefing in the audiovisual room tomorrow, we will have an opportunity to learn more about Dr. Lynn. A newly installed artwork by artist Mary Kelly featuring Dr. Lynn was unveiled in Leinster House this week. It seems therefore that political support is now building for the initiative. I ask, therefore, that Seanad Éireann pass this motion today to name our national children’s hospital after Dr. Kathleen Lynn. I understand my colleague, Senator Victor Boyhan, will second this motion.

Martin Conway (Fine Gael)
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Like other Members, I pay tribute to the Cathaoirleach and his team for an outstanding event yesterday. It was certainly a dignified event that captured what is different and diverse about Seanad Éireann. Well done to everybody involved.

I find myself speaking again today on Shannon Heritage. Last Friday, Clare County Council announced it was withdrawing from the process of acquiring Shannon Heritage sites in County Clare because of inactivity at Government level and the failure by the Government to make available the €15 million needed to ensure the long-term viability of the facilities. I do not know what is going on in the Government. One Minister does not seen to be talking to the other. It is totally unacceptable. Heading into Christmas, the staff and management of Shannon Heritage do not know whether they are coming or going or what the plan is for the future of these extremely important tourist attractions in County Clare.

I also raise the issue of the Owenacurra Centre in Midleton simply because what is happening in Cork is wrong. The performance of the head of the Mental Health Commission at the Joint Committee on Disability Matters last Thursday was diabolical. The condescending approach taken when answering questions from Deputies Hourigan and Cairns was totally unacceptable. I do not know what more we can do in regard to Owenacurra but I believe there needs to be an investigation into the circumstances of the centre's closure. That needs to be headed up by a retired High Court judge because what has happened is unacceptable. We cannot stand by without asking the questions that need to be answered.

Eileen Flynn (Independent)
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It was remarkable for me to be at yesterday's event as the first serving Member from the Traveller community. I will not be liked for saying this but it is important to speak truth to power. It was a little embarrassing that no minority voices were heard yesterday. That is coming from someone from an ethnic minority group. I flagged this a few times but as my mother would say, "You can bring a horse to water but you cannot make him drink it". To be clear it was not about me as a person but if we are marking minority voices and major change, it was a pity. The House needs to consider that if we are going to be talking about minorities and have people from minority groups in the Seanad, we need to give them the opportunity. What I would have said yesterday, standing on the shoulders of great individuals such as Mary Robinson and Senator Norris, was what this House can do and achieve for people from ethnic minority groups. I thank the Cathaoirleach for his support over the past two and a half years. He made my time with the Civil Engagement Group in this House much easier and he is proactive. I thank him for all his support but I also need to say that. As I will not speak again on the Order of Business this week, I wish to thank the Taoiseach for being part of major change in Irish society, breaking down the barriers for people from minority groups and giving this opportunity for people like me, which was the title of Senator Ruane's book, to be here. I thank him for that, and all my colleagues for their support over the years. I know I was critical of yesterday but it needs to be said in order that we can do better going forward.

John McGahon (Fine Gael)
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I raise the case of Dáithí McCann, a five-month-old baby from Dundalk, County Louth. Dáithí was born on 5 August 2022 but he lost a kidney soon after birth. His second kidney is also under threat. Fewer than 1% of babies are born with such a complex range of medical conditions and Dáithí has not been able to come home yet. A GoFundMe page with a target of €12,000 has raised €23,000 to help the family with accommodation costs in Dublin, medical costs and so on. The reason I bring this matter up today is that the maternity leave of Dáithí's mother, Bronagh, has now expired. We should have a debate on maternity leave in the new year, specifically on what can be done in cases where it runs out and a mother of a severely sick child has no other options available to her.There should be situations where maternity leave can be extended. That would provide a degree of financial help for somebody like Bronagh. We are doing so much now, such as introducing maternity leave for councillors and so on. Therefore, in instances where a child has severe medical issues, we should consider a more rounded approach such as an extension of maternity leave. Finally, I would appreciate if a debate on the matter could be arranged for the new year.

Maria Byrne (Fine Gael)
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I congratulate the Cathaoirleach and staff of the Oireachtas on the celebration yesterday. It was very appropriate and lovely to see so many former Members in attendance. I congratulate all involved in such a lovely occasion and we are all honoured to be a part of it.

Yesterday the people of the mid-west got good news with the announcment that there will be a new route between Shannon Airport and Liverpool, which will commence in March of next year. I wish to compliment the team in Shannon Airport on the hard work they have put into developing the airport and recovering from Covid times.

Yesterday, the Tánaiste set out the vision for the region in the form of the Shannon estuary economic task force. I compliment Mr. Barry O'Sullivan, chairman of the task force, and all who were involved in finalising the interim report. The report sets out how the region can play a leading role in the switch to renewable energy and more climate friendly ways of living and doing business. The estuary could become a hub for sustainable transport technologies and a western digital gateway to Europe. The interim report proposes significant investment in the ports at Foynes and Moneypoint, which would be welcome, a new auction for floating wind generation in 2024, and identifying industrial sites for clean energy industries like hydrogen. The interim report also sets out the task force’s ambition to begin supplying Atlantic offshore wind energy through the estuary by 2030 with the intention of significantly accelerating it up to 2050.

The interim report looked at the tourism sector in the area. Certainly this report will lead to huge economic transformation and job creation. The Government needs to move forward with the report. I do not want the interim report left lying on a shelf; I want to see it implemented.

Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
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I congratulate the Cathaoirleach on yesterday's events.

I wish to briefly comment on Shannon heritage sites, which are key for our tourism product across the mid-west. We know the Government has dropped the ball and that these sites should have been transferred to Clare County Council. What is completely inexplicable is the fact that absolutely nothing has been done since the budget and now the workers, whom I know and I know their union, SIPTU, very well, are now faced with being put on short time from the new year. It is shameful that the Government has dropped the ball not once but twice and do not seem to know what to do about it. The inaction is, frankly, inexcusable and hugely damaging to the mid-west tourism offering.

I want to raise the issue of migrants attempting to reach Europe. One of the key themes of the Christmas story is there being no room at the inn. The Border Violence Monitoring Network has published a shocking report which documents more than 1,635 testimonies of human rights violations that have affected almost 25,000 people over the past six years who tried to make their way to Europe. In fact, the network reports that migrants attempting to reach the EU are now almost always subjected to some form of violence at the hands of the authorities. They recount being beaten, kicked, humiliated through forced undressing, threatened with a firearm, arbitrarily detained and subjected to inhuman treatment inside a police station before being illegally pushed back both at the EU's external borders and from deep within the territory of the bloc's member states. These events took place in Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Spain, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania and Slovenia. These events are not exceptions. This report tells us this is an EU policy of fortress Europe to lock out people, keep them out and subject them to violence. These are the detailed reports of this latest NGO report and the findings are shocking. I ask for a debate on this matter to be arranged for the new year because there is a marked contrast between what we show we can do, and quite rightly in terms of supporting the people of Ukraine, and what we refuse to do for other migrants who are basically being pushed back, and subjected to horrific violence and abuse on a daily basis. We hear about EU values but these are EU policies on a daily basis.

Victor Boyhan (Independent)
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I want to be associated with the thanks expressed to the Cathaoirleach, the Clerk of the Seanad, the Seanad staff and the committee that organised the events for yesterday's Seanad 100. Congratulations on such a positive event. The strongest take away for me was the enormous positive feedback from the former members of Seanad Éireann. I would like to think that in the new year we might explore how we can continue to build on that relationship with former members of this House and the knowledge transfer they have, and their vast experience. Former Senators were truly thrilled to be here and we must tap into their expertise more. We should constructively look at doing so across these Houses.

I formally second the proposal by my colleague, Senator Keogan's, who proposed an amendment to the Order of Business concerning Dr. Kathleen Lynn. The movement around Dr. Lynn is enormous and speaks for itself. The issue has been covered extensively in the media and on the poles around Leinster House in the past week. I support this very obvious issue and I know we will have other opportunities to speak on the matter.

I want to talk about the proposed planning legislation. It is important that we do not feed into misinformation. There is a lot of misinformation but one thing is clear is that right across the media there is a suggestion that community groups would be barred from taking judicial reviews. We must wait and see what that is but I would like to think we would strongly resist any attempt by community groups, community initiatives or city and county councils that are intrinsically involved in these community groups being hampered in terms of their ability to robustly participate in the planning process.

Interestingly, some days ago I took the time to look at the website of An Bord Pleanála and searched for the names of a number of Deputies, Senators and Government Ministers who made very positive and constructive objections, and engaged with many communities about judicial reviews. I hope they will remember that when they are on the other side of the fence and outside this House when this legislation comes before us.

Aisling Dolan (Fine Gael)
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I thank all of the Seanad 100 team for the event yesterday. It was wonderful to celebrate the fact that more than 800 Senators have served in Seanad Éireann of which nearly 120 were women. I very much appreciate the new portraits that have been added to the House to celebrate the women who have served here in Seanad Éireann.

I wish to pay tribute to the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Deputy Heather Humphreys, for the funding for community centres that was received last week. A lot of groups in counties Galway and Roscommon jumped for joy last week when they heard about the funding. I wish to highlight that the funding is for the renovation and retrofitting of buildings, community centres and parish halls. Funding amounting to €0.25 million has been allocated to the Town Hall Theatre in Ballinasloe, County Galway. The theatre is being used right now, and was used last week, for productions of the Ballinasloe panto, which has brought back the Christmas spirit to the town and for children who did not have the opportunity to see a panto for the past two or three years. I thank the volunteers who submitted the applications. The social services in Ballinasloe have received funding of more than €80,000 to make the building more energy efficient by erecting solar panels, and improving lighting and flooring. The Drum Community Centre and Elfin Community Centre in County Roscommon received funding too. It is crucial these community centres are funded. Volunteers run these activities in local areas and the funding will make the building sustainable for the future and future generations. The funding will keep towns and villages alive. I thank the volunteers, the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Minister, Deputy Heather Humphreys.

Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail)
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I echo the remarks of colleagues in thanking and praising the Cathaoirleach and the Seanad team for the organisation of the event yesterday. I was also delighted to see music incorporated into it. I hope we hear music more regularly in these halls.

I have some concerns about unintended consequences of the proposed new regulations on short-term letting. Nobody wants to see people gaming the system to try to avoid the planning regulations. I am worried about the impact the new regulations may have on holiday homes, particularly during the summer months. I request that we have statements on this matter in the new year to get clarity on how the regulations will work. While this is being seen as a solution to some of the housing challenges, I am worried that it may have a knock-on impact on tourism and may not produce any additional properties for long-term letting. I request that we have statements on the matter in the new year.

I acknowledge that this is the season for the spirit of Christmas. While much of the focus is on the commercial side, we need to remember what the true Christmas message is about. It is about the story of the holy family and the fact that they were refugees who sought refuge. I am sure that during their time, they met with the "#Bethlehemisfull" types, but there were people who were still generous and able to provide them with shelter. Those of us who describe ourselves as Christian, like those of any other faith or indeed of none, have very important values which we all want to uphold. In this season of Christmas, it is really important - and our language matters - that we understand the crucial Christmas message of welcoming and protecting those who are less fortunate. We need to welcome them, and in particular those who have come to these shores fleeing war, trouble and persecution, as part of our Christmas greetings.

Gerard Craughwell (Independent)
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Last Friday, a monument, if you could call it that, was unveiled in Custume Barracks in Athlone. The inscription on it read: "Honouring the unwavering support of the families of personnel of A Company 35 Infantry Battalion ONUC". Rarely have I seen anything that offended people to such a degree. Half of the families were not invited although I got an invitation. The Quinlans did not get an invitation until two days after the RSVP closed. The sole living officer from Jadotville got an invitation by phone call the day before the event. Company Sergeant Michael Tighe died in March of this year and an invitation was sent to his house with his name and that of his partner on it. What the hell were the organisers thinking? This Jadotville thing has rattled on since 1961 with incremental move after incremental move insulting and hurting families more and more each time. I believe the Minister for Defence, Deputy Coveney, owes the families a deep apology at this stage. I have rarely in my life come across people who are so hurt and so injured. One woman wrote to the Minister and spoke for ten families when she said they wanted nothing to do with this event. They had not been consulted or asked. It was a box-ticking exercise for somebody, but not for the families it was supposed to represent. It is a bad day's work for the Oireachtas, for the Minister and for the Department when something like that happens.

Before I finish, I will speak about yesterday, which was a wonderful day in Leinster House and a wonderful day for the Seanad. I compliment the Cathaoirleach on the great job he did and each of those who were chosen to speak. The speeches yesterday were fantastic. They were really good. For once I felt the Seanad shone a very bright light for what goes on in this House. I look forward to the reform that is coming in the near future.

Garret Ahearn (Fine Gael)
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I also compliment the Cathaoirleach and all the team here, including Martin Groves and Bridget Doody and everyone who put the event yesterday together. It was a very memorable day and there were fantastic contributions by all, especially by all the current Senators.

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a very debilitating condition for women during pregnancy. It is essentially, for want of a better description, a much more severe form of morning sickness. It affects approximately 2% of women going through pregnancy. Kate Middleton is a very famous person who had it during her first pregnancy. The Minister, Deputy Stephen Donnelly, has followed through on a commitment he made when he was in Opposition to give the drug Cariban to women who suffer from this condition. This has been welcomed by people who have suffered from this condition and those who might do so in the future. There is one issue with the drug on which we need clarity from the Minister. As it is set out at the moment, the Minister has said that the prescription needs to be signed by a consultant rather than a GP. The obvious problem here is that the first time people who go through pregnancy meet a consultant is 12 weeks in, and after that it is at the 20-week scan. As this condition happens very early in pregnancy, this policy needs to be reviewed to see if a GP can give the prescription rather than a consultant. For many people who get this condition very early in their pregnancy, it is very debilitating. By the time they get to the 12-week scan, they are not able to work or have any sort of an active way of life. It is important that they do not have to wait for 12 weeks to be able to get a prescription for Cariban to make things more manageable during their pregnancy. I know the Minister is open to looking at this, but it would be appreciated if a decision could be made as quickly as possible to make sure GPs can sign off on these prescriptions.

Lisa Chambers (Fianna Fail)
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Senator Norris was the first Senator to contribute this morning. He rightly raised concerns around the FIFA World Cup in Qatar and the appalling track record of human rights abuses. Many migrant workers lost their lives while building the many stadiums which now host the games. Many other members of this House have raised similar issues over recent weeks and months and would concur with the Senator's remarks.

Senator Norris also raised a particular issue around bins in Dublin city. He was quite critical of Dublin City Council's handing of that particular issue. He called for a debate with the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, which we will request but will take place in the new term.

Senator Kyne has raised the issue of Inland Fisheries Ireland on a number of occasions in this House. He spoke on it again this morning and was supported by Senator Burke. I understand there are particular sensitivities around the issue. I concur with the Senator's remarks around the need at times for Senators to use the privilege in this House to raise matters of public concern that they may otherwise not be in a position to raise outside of these walls. That is an important function of public representatives. Both Senators called on the board of Inland Fisheries Ireland to investigate certain issues surrounding a senior appointment in the organisation.

Senator Martin, like pretty much every Senator, spoke about yesterday's sitting, how fantastic it was and the work that was done.

Senator Murphy spoke about the planning and development Bill and the memo to Cabinet this morning from the Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien. I welcome the long-awaited reforms of the planning system that will need to be worked through. We will obviously have debates in this House but these reforms have been sought for many years. There are clear problems with the planning process in this country. Projects get held up for many years through the judicial review process. I understand one of the main things to be dealt with is the need to have proper timelines in place for the new coimisiún pleanála and the judicial review process. That will be welcomed by all. We will, of course, tease out the other complexities and details surrounding that new proposal.

Senator Ó Donnghaile highlighted the chaos at the airports. I take on board his point that we are an island nation and we need to be connected. That request for a debate this week has gone to the Minister's office. I do not know if we will get him this week, being honest, but we will of course ask. It might be worth the Senator's while to table a Commencement matter because it might be the earliest opportunity to get a direct reply from the Minister's office on that issue. We would all be in agreement with the comments the Senator has made. Senator Wall raised the issue of medicine shortages. I am aware of that issue. There are particular challenges around certain antibiotics that would be the ones most often prescribed, particularly to children. Given all that we are dealing with in terms of the strep condition and RSV, there are many bugs flying around this winter and we are seeing increased numbers of cases. There are challenges with shortages of some prescription medicines, which have been raised with many Members. The Minister for Health is very much aware of the challenges with the shortage of supply and is working to resolve that matter with the pharmacies. He also welcomed the new regulations signed by the Minister of State, Deputy Peter Burke, around changing place toilets to see an increase of approximately 80 per year, which would be welcome for so many families.

Senator Ruane commended the role that the Cathaoirleach played the past two and half years and how he utilised the position in a way that perhaps was not done previously to the benefit of all Senators, which is welcome. I concur with her remarks. He made the role his own and put his stamp on it. We have all welcomed the different initiatives, whether it was the special sitting yesterday, the engagement with MEPs or the public consultation committee. He used the office and pushed the Standing Orders to their limits in a good way, which is necessary to shake things up every now and again. He has certainly set the bar and it has been a very good two and a half years for the Cathaoirleach is his role. I thank him for his work in that regard.

The Senator also mentioned the GAA match that is happening in Mountjoy Prison on Thursday. I will hopefully participate in that as well. I have not soloed a ball in 15 years. I must get the ball out and give it a go. I commend her on her work in engaging with the prison community, all of her advocacy and facilitating Members of both Houses to engage with people from different communities and backgrounds and showing us first-hand the challenged faced. Listening to her contributions has opened my eyes in the past couple of years, but going out and meeting different community groups has as well. It has changed my views and perspective on certain issues. It is always good to keep an open mind on these issues. She has also asked for statements on prison reform in the new term, which, of course, we will organise at the earliest opportunity

Senator McGreehan raised capacity issues in the emergency department in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. She also congratulated Lough County Council on its St. Brigid initiative, the Brigid1500 programme, that will take place next year and in 2024 as well.

Senator Paddy Burke spoke about IFI and has a requested a debate on the European Parliament and the powers conferred upon it by member states. We will request that debate in the new term.

Senator Buttimer raised a particular cystic fibrosis issue and requested a debate with the Minister for Health.

He also raised issues around catering on Irish Rail. I concur with his remarks. We are long past the restrictive Covid measures that we had last year. Rail services have been back up and running for a full year and it is disappointing there are still no catering services on all of our Intercity rail links. I would ask Irish Rail to do everything it can to get catering services there for people. These are long journeys without being able to access even a bottle water if people do not bring anything with them. We can do better in terms of our service to people.

Senator Keogan proposed an amendment to the Order of Business, which was seconded by Senator Boyhan. I am happy to accept the amendment. She also spoke about yesterday’s event. It was great to hear from Senator David Norris and also former Members.

Senator Flynn spoke about the fact that no minority voices were heard yesterday. There were particular challenges around speaking. The sitting was curtailed in terms of time and every grouping just got one slot. However, I do not know the full ins and outs of perhaps discussions that happened beyond that. I acknowledge the well made point and I take on board what she said in that regard.

Senator McGahon spoke about young Dáithí McCann and the fact that he is a very sick baby. His mam is passing her maternity leave and is now heading into a space where she does not have any of those financial supports or leave. The Senator’s suggestion that we would look at extending maternity leave in cases of very sick children is certainly a debate to be had and a worthwhile request.

Senator Maria Byrne mentioned the Shannon to Liverpool route that has been added to Shannon Airport and the Shannon Estuary economic task force that has been set up as well. She commended the work of those involved.

Senator Gavan spoke about the human rights violations against migrants trying to access the EU. I concur with his remarks in that there is a lot of appalling treatment of migrants trying to access the European Union. It is very disappointing. We are lucky to be in the top 5% in the world simply because we were just born here. We were lucky to be born in a wealthy country where we take for food, shelter, education and health services for granted. Even though we give out about certain issues, we are very fortunate to have all of those things that many people do not have in their home country and are fleeing for different reasons. I feel deeply uncomfortable at pulling the ladder up and preventing people from accessing the opportunity to have a better life, which is all people are looking for. We can do much better on that front. Despite all of the challenges we have had with the numbers of people coming from Ukraine, for example, as a country, we have done quite well. We have managed to fend off some of those minor challenges from a small number of people who are not happy with people coming in to seek shelter. For the most part, as a country, we have done quite well in that regard. However, we can be a stronger voice at the EU table in having a better policy in place. It is unfortunate that some member states do not support that domestically. That is proving challenging when the EU is based on consensus and requires all or no countries to support something. There are moves afoot at EU level to find a way to a qualified majority and perhaps a super-qualified majority for certain decisions to prevent one or two member states vetoing action where everybody else wants to move on something. Perhaps that is an area, although I am not sure migration is in the space just yet. It will be the biggest challenge for us as a Union in the coming decade, so we will have to deal with it. It is an important debate to have.

Senator Boyhan seconded Senator Keogan's amendment. He also raised particular concerns around the planning legislation and the new amendments being proposed regarding community groups. I take on board his points. We will have that debate around the ins and outs of the new proposals in the new term.

Senator Dolan welcomed the community centre funding that was provided by the Government in Ballinasloe.

Senator Malcolm Byrne spoke about short-term letting and the new regulations. I agree with him. I think of my own county of Mayo, where there are no hotels in and very few bed and breakfasts in parts of it. Airbnbs provide a valuable source of accommodation for tourists that perhaps might not otherwise come into an area and in areas where that is one of our key employers as well. There is a delicate balancing act to be found where we do not prevent long-term homes to people but we also do not cut off a supply of holiday accommodation to a region that does not have an alternative. We need to find the right balance. He spoke about the Christmas spirit as well and being welcoming to those who are fleeing difficult situations in whatever country they are coming from. It is an important message to remember that Christmas is more than just presents, gifts and mulled wine; it is about making sure that we are welcoming and show love those to who are coming from those challenging areas.

Senator Craughwell spoke about the new monument – I am not sure exactly how he termed it – but he has raised the Jadotville issue on many occasions in this Chamber and the unfortunate situation that happened where many were upset and offended by how a particular ceremony was dealt with. The Senator eloquently put his remarks on the record of the House.

Senator Ahearn spoke about hyperemesis, the morning sickness issue, and the prescription of Cariban. I take on board the Senator’s comments in relation to GPs not being allowed to prescribe. I am not sure how doctors would view that and whether that is a request GPs themselves or whether there is a particular reason consultants are required to come in and give the consent. It is worth perhaps tabling a Commencement matter on that issue because we require further detail on how that might be worked out. It was a big welcome at least to see Cariban being made available for the first time when it is such an expensive drug and can cost up to €3,000 during a pregnancy.

That concludes the Order of Business.

Just in case I do not get the opportunity for the rest of the week, I want to put on the record of this House my thanks to all of the Senators for their work over the past year in dealing with me as Deputy Leader of the House and the Fianna Fáil group as well. I also thank, of course, Mr. Martin Groves and the staff, without whom we would not be able to operate and things would not move efficiently and smoothly. Significant work goes on behind the scenes, particularly at pinch points when there is pressure to get legislation through. We have staff who work in the Seanad Office and put in over and above what would be required to get the business moving. It is appreciated.

A lot of work went into planning yesterday’s sitting as well, from the inception of the idea to making a reality. That was in no small part due to the work of Mr. Groves, Mr. Peter Finnegan and all of the team in the Oireachtas as well. To make yesterday run smoothly and go so well is a huge credit to the Houses of the Oireachtas and the Seanad Office. I think we were all very proud yesterday to be Members of this House. It was lovely to see other former Members there as well and hear Dr. John Bowman, An Taoiseach and all of those who contributed yesterday.The musical interlude towards the end was beautiful. It was a lovely and historic day and it was a huge privilege to be a part of it and to have a seat in the Chamber. I thank everyone and wish them a happy Christmas.

Victor Boyhan (Independent)
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Hear, hear.

Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
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Well said.

Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
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I again thank the staff and Senators who were involved in the planning and preparation, as well as the people who did a lot of work behind the scenes, including Martin Groves, Bridget Doody and all on the Seanad team who made it work so well. I also thank Senator Chambers for her kind words.

Senator Keogan has proposed an amendment to the Order of Business: "That No. 129(4) be taken before No. 1." It was seconded by Senator Boyhan. The Acting Leader has indicated she is prepared to accept the amendment.