Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to convey my condolences to the family of the late Tom Burke. Many of us will remember him standing outside of Leinster House in the pursuit of photographs over many years. On my very first day in Leinster House, in May 2011, Tom took a photo of me when I approached the gate. He has photographed many of us over the years. He became a good friend to many of us and gave us plenty of advice. I extend my sympathies to his wife, who is originally from County Clare, and family. Ar dheis de go raibh a anam dílis.

I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on the National Maternity Hospital and update us on who owns the site. Yesterday, women and men were outside of Leinster House to protest against the restrictions imposed by Covid and so on. They were right to protest. The hospitality sector and nightclubs have opened and it is unacceptable to still have restrictions placed on the people who seek to accompany women when they have their babies.

We need a debate on the National Maternity Hospital. I fundamentally believe that the hospital should operate completely independent of vested interests, including the church. That should happen, and we should make that happen. I would like an update on the current situation and ask the Leader to schedule a debate on this issue in the not too distant future.