Catherine Ardagh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Government's move to take in 25 migrants from the Lifeline, the ship that is stranded off the coast of Malta. However, we should be taking in more. It is time for the House to have an open and honest debate about our immigration policies and our implementation of same. This is one of the greatest issues facing not just Ireland, but Europe, so it is incumbent on us to be proactive rather than reactive in terms of proposed immigration policies.

I welcome the extension of the work permit to migrants, but we need to do more. The House needs to have a debate so that Senators can express their views openly and honestly. We must ensure that a proper and constructive framework is in place to deal with issues facing migrants, including access to housing, education and work permits. This debate should be facilitated urgently.

I have raised the issue of housing every week in the Chamber. More than 85,000 households are awaiting social housing. Many of these are in receipt of the housing assistance payment, HAP. Nearly 10,000 people are in homelessness, including almost 4,000 children. Rent pressure zones and other rent support mechanisms are not working, given that rents are increasing rapidly and HAP cannot keep pace. There are large landbanks around this city, including those at St. Michael's Estate in Inchicore, which have been left idle for more than a decade and on which we are awaiting social housing and community amenities to be built.

We need to rethink our housing models. We must build social and affordable housing on State-owned lands, but this does not seem to be happening quickly enough. It needs to be made a priority. I call on the Minister to attend the House to tell us what he is doing about St. Michael's Estate and inform us of his general policies and plans for social and affordable housing in this city.

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

I had intended to speak on one matter, but I will first touch on the issue of housing raised by Senator Ardagh. When the Minister of State, Deputy English, took my Commencement matter on the local infrastructure housing activation fund, LIHAF, this morning, he stated that he would this week announce a second round. That is positive news and should be acknowledged. In conjunction with local authority funding, it will fund the building of affordable housing on State lands, be they owned by State agencies or one of the 31 local authorities. Once the second round is unveiled in the coming days, it might be a good time to have the Minister explain the situation in the House.

Listening to the commentary about Pope Francis's visit to Ireland, I have been disturbed by a small, but intolerant, group of people who have some difficulty with someone as superior as the Pope, who represents people.I respect Pope Francis as I respect Queen Elizabeth, the Dalai Lama or anybody else who represents people. As I was coming in here this morning, I asked myself what my purpose is. I would like to think that one of the purposes I have is to be an advocate and a conduit for people and that I can come in here and speak in our national Parliament. It is a sad day that we allow people to go our airwaves and vent anger and hatred towards any leader. I respect that people have the right to hold their own views and that is fair enough. We live in a democracy but more importantly we live in a republic. We are proud of our republic and we have a Constitution. The Pope has been invited by the Government and people of this country so I would like to think we would extend him a céad míle fáilte, many welcomes. It is about respect for diversity and difference. That is what this country is all about and we have celebrated our own history and conflicts many times. I could not let today go without saying that it is important that people have rights and that are entitled to be angry over issues that have affected them or their families but let us not lose sight of the bigger picture. We live in a republic and we welcome everyone, including dissenters, as guests of our nation and of our people. We should be mindful of that as advocates for democracy who are elected to Parliament in a republic.

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

I tried to get tickets to see the Pope in Knock but unfortunately I could not get through. It is quite unlikely I will get them now.

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

It is sold out.

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

It is sold out. I suppose all the people in Carlow will be coming up. I am not sure about my tickets for the Mayo-Kildare game on Sunday either.

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

Is it? We look forward to that and to the right result.

I raise the issue of the agency staff in hospitals, in particular those in Mayo University Hospital, and the fact €5.3 million was spent in 2017 on agency staff in that hospital. That is neither prudent nor sustainable when we have a situation where there are more than 700,000 people on waiting lists and there are so many other gaps to be filled. We know agency staff are more expensive. We also know that within a system, permanent sustainable teams are needed, teams who are used to working with each other and who know the run of the mill and the environment they are working in. We need consistency and that cannot happen in a situation where there is an over-dependence on agency staff.

This did not happen today or yesterday. It found its roots in the moratorium that was imposed on healthcare staff, which should never have been put in place. We should have protected our health service and staff above and beyond anything else. I talked yesterday about the National Pensions Reserve Fund being given to the bankers. We should have prioritised our health service and staff who do a wonderful job. The retention and recruitment crisis has never been fixed. Last year the State spent €105 million on agency doctors alone. That is not sustainable either. In Mayo, €1.6 million was spent on medical and dental staff. It is right across the board and those figures do not add up in a system where there are constant overruns and so many gaps that need to be filled.

We need a real examination of the education system in the area of the training of medical staff and doctors. We have the health professions admission test, HPAT, now but my great fear is that there are wonderful young people who would make brilliant doctors and have a sense of social justice and righteousness but because their home lives are perhaps not conducive to excelling in their leaving certificates, they are barred from that for life. That should not be the case. Our education system should be re-examined in that regard because the problem of recruitment and retention will not go away. We need to address the issues of pay and conditions also. I ask the Minister to come into the House, specifically to deal with the issue of aligning the education system with the health service to see what improvements can be made there.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I call Senator Marie-Louise O'Donnell. It is such a lovely morning I am giving her priority.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach who caught me unawares, which is unusual for me. I propose an amendment to the Order of Business again today because I am anxious the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Deputy Naughten, comes into the House to discuss community banking. I may be going on about this but there is not a Senator in this House or a Deputy in the Dáil who does not understand that we have created an Ireland with a "new poor" of people who earn between €25,000 to €60,000. These people have trained and educated themselves but they cannot afford to live and to stay in their own country. They are nurses, radiographers, occupational therapists, teachers and tradesmen. They cannot even afford the idea of saving for a house or apartment. We seem to consistently capitulate in this country. The universities did it to the pillar banks.

There was a Private Members' motion in the Dáil on community banking, that is, the Sparkasse bank in Germany, the Kiwibank, or a combination with aspects of all of them. I want the Minister to come in here and tell me where he is in these negotiations and what is going on because the tentacles of his Department move right out into the society I am talking about. Senators are seeing it on the ground every day, as are Deputies. I am not getting answers on this.

We have one of the best post office networks in Europe and these community banks could live well and the interest rates could be competitive with the pillar banks which do what they like. Now we cannot even find a human being in the bank branch and still the interest rates go up. Young people cannot save the €20,000 and they do not have a mammy and daddy to give it to them, as the Taoiseach said. I cannot afford to give it to my son and neither can many parents. It is a disgraceful down payment from any pillar bank. Some 95% of banks in Ireland are commercial but only 12% in Germany are. What does that tell us? We are afraid of the banks and competition. It is an area for post offices because they have tentacles going out to the people. It is a perfect place to put it but I want an argument on it and I want us to decide if it is a good or a bad thing and look at how we could do it. How is it that New Zealand did it and all of the money went back into the communities? There is plenty of profit for everybody.

There was not one person on the radio recently, after Mr. Drumm was incarcerated, who said they would put money in the pillar banks. If I had £20 I would not go near them. I would rather give it to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. This is a bit of a rant but it is a real one in that I want the Minister come in here and argue about the community banks. A Private Members' motion on them was passed in the Dáil. I want us to talk about them and see if the Seanad could do something to create a channel for this and not have the pillar banks dictating the lives, hopes and expectations of every young person, educated or uneducated, who is trying to build a life in Ireland.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Is the Senator moving the same amendment as she moved yesterday?

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Absolutely.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Someone will have to second that.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator Norris will.

Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

On a positive note and in the theme of what has come up so far, I was watching the test game between Ireland and Australia last Saturday morning.It appeared that the bulk of the people attending the match were Irish. A large number of our highly-skilled young people are living abroad. We are reaching full employment here now and it is time to have a debate in the House, with the Minister for the diaspora and the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection present, on how we can encourage people to come home.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Keep them in our country.

Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I want to look at the issue in a positive way. I agree with Senator O'Donnell that we have an issue around affordability but in terms of the sustainability of our economy, I would like to see our diaspora returning here.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Hear, hear.

Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We need to have an informed debate on the issue, which is multi-layered. It is about housing, the employment element, affordability and the ingredients we need to encourage people to return here. In a ten-year period that lost generation found themselves in a position where they had to emigrate. We are facing issues here in terms of skill sets for building houses and so on. Many of those with the necessary skills are now living abroad. I would like to see them return here. I ask the Leader and the Cathaoirleach to facilitate a debate on the young diaspora living in Australia, America, Canada and the United Kingdom who might look to return to Ireland. That would include issues such as the diaspora, housing, employment and education. We need to have that debate because we are reaching full employment here.

On another aspect of this issue and going back to the point made by Senator O'Donnell, because we are nearing full employment those who were long-term unemployed are now getting jobs, many of which are unskilled. We need to examine a model whereby the people get back into employment but upskill while they are in that employment. They will then be re-established in the workforce but they can look up the value chain, so to speak, in terms of jobs. We are in a different sphere now. Ireland is doing well and we have full employment, but that brings its own issues. We are not talking about jobs but about people being able to afford their own homes.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I was not talking about jobs.

Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I know. I am saying we are not talking about them.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I was talking about greed and the banks.

Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am referring to the first item the Senator raised. I cannot get through all the ones she raised.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I was talking about greed and the banks.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Please, Senator O'Donnell.

Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am calling for a debate in the House on the diaspora.

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

The concern I raise is similar. Many of the matters raised are similar but it is important that we learn a valuable lesson from leaving certificate students. We cannot have next year’s examinations being brought into question because we are not paying teachers properly.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Hear, hear.

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

This year, people who were qualified in their field were asked to correct examinations but they were not qualified teachers. The shortage of available qualified teachers this year forced the hiring of individuals outside the sector to correct examinations. That brought the correction process into question and filled many students with fear and confusion.

A 30% increase on existing State Examinations Commission, SEC, pay rates is not a massive ask, given the years of austerity cuts the sector has endured. This is the Senator's issue. Teachers qualified since 2011 have not got a pay increase. That is a major issue.

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

We need to keep our belts tight but not so tight that we are busting at the seams. Teachers do a great deal of work for our future generations. We need to address the poor compensation they receive for correcting examination papers.

That problem is symptomatic of the wider issue of the shortage of teachers because the pay is not of a high grade when compared with the same positions internationally. The State Examinations Commission has stated that remuneration rates are increased in line with teachers' pay rates, which lead to an increase of 1% in examiner fee rates for 2018. That will increase for 2019 examinations in line with the pay restoration measures outlined in the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020.

If we are to stop the haemorrhaging of young qualified teachers abroad we need to examine this issue and ensure that in some way we can restore correct pay to a sector that is vital to our future.

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

These are the issues.

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

We are not paying teachers enough.

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

We need to make sure they do not go abroad to work. In 2011, massive changes were introduced. I ask that we have a debate on this issue and that whether it is teachers, nurses or apprentices, we keep them here in Ireland. We are sending them abroad.

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

It is the truth.

Anthony Lawlor (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In 2006 and 2007, the Senator's party wrecked the economy.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I second Senator Marie Louise O'Donnell's proposal.

I raise the question of the Pope's visit. I was disturbed to hear on the wireless over the weekend about groups of people who are each buying blocks of 660 tickets and then deciding not to use them in order to reduce the numbers at this event and prevent other decent people who want to go from being allowed to attend. That is extremely mean minded. I do not agree with it at all. I have issues with the Vatican but the way to deal with that is in a dignified way and not this kind of attempt to wreck the visit. I appeal to those with these large numbers of tickets to release them so that decent, ordinary Irish Catholics can go to see the Pope.

I refer to the presidential election. I notice Fianna Fáil has now thrown its weight in behind Michael D. Higgins. It has also instructed Members of the Oireachtas and members of local authorities not to support any other candidate except Michael D. That is very dangerous, and I am quite sure Fine Gael will follow suit. I was blocked during the 2011 election. I was not allowed even to speak to Galway County Council as a result of the operations of Deputy Hildegarde Naughton, who was then the Mayor of Galway. She put a ban on that. This is quite wrong. On the previous occasion, until I entered the race there was going to be no race. The political parties were hugger-muggering. They were moving towards selecting an agreed candidate because the parties do not like having presidential races. They have absolute contempt for the Office of the President in political terms. They could not be bothered running anybody.

I know they say Michael D. is an excellent candidate, which he is, and he has been a very good President, but in a general election, if candidate Kelly from Fine Gael was an excellent candidate would Fianna Fáil stand back and say, "Ah no. We wouldn't go up against Deputy Kelly. He's an excellent candidate".

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

They would not.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Of course they would not because they take it seriously. They do not take seriously-----

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I know that but that is no reason to block other people. The Senator's party is blocking other people. That is what I am objecting to. You can suck up to Michael D. as much as you like.

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

The Senator had a free run the last time.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Everything is rigged in favour of the political parties.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Ciúnas.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It certainly is. The nomination process is heavily rigged in favour of the political parties. The parties do not have to go through any process. They just decide to plonk somebody in.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Thank you. Time, Senator.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Okay, but there were quite a few interruptions. In addition, the finance is totally skewed to massively favour the parties. At the Constitutional Convention I put forward a motion that would amend that. It was passed by 98% of the people present. It was by far the highest percentage and nothing has ever been done about it. We must look at the office of the presidency in terms of the way in which it is regulated, the method of nomination and the method of financing to ensure we have a level playing field to allow people go for election.

Finally, I am fed up listening to people saying, "Oh, I would go only for Michael D." Why do they not have the courage the go anyway?

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I ran. Michael D. ran. I was a great friend and colleague of Michael D. and I said to him that if I was not running myself, I would be out on a bus canvassing for him. That is how highly I felt about him, but it did not stop me because I wanted to run. We should encourage that kind of attitude in people because with the best will in the world, do we want a President who will be 85 in the last year?

Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Steady.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Forget about saying "ageism". It is the truth.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator is bending the rules. He is well over the time.

Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He has been doing it for years.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I will defer to the Cathaoirleach as long as we recognise that the political parties are bending the rules in running for the Presidency.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

They are.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I seek clarification on two issues. First, is the Senator suggesting he is running?

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

No.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Regrettably, since my cancer operation, I have not had the energy or the strength. I would also be too old.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Second, on a more serious point, Senator David Norris referred to Deputy Hildegarde Naughton. I would prefer if he did not, as I am not sure whether she acted on her own on the issue. I would prefer Members of the Lower House not to be mentioned in the context of issues that are of an historical nature.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I see.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator.

Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I will drive Senator David Norris around the country if he decides to run.

Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

No, but I will drive Senator David Norris around.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What will the Senator do?

Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

If the Senator puts his name forward, I will drive him around the country if he is not able to do so himself.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As that is an offer I can hardly refuse, I will have to consider it.

Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Please do.

Anthony Lawlor (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I agree with Senator Kieran O'Donnell about upskilling people who are returning to work. Training programmes are designed for people who are unemployed, but there is now virtually full employment. As such, the regime needs to be flipped around and we need to start training people who are in work for a changing economy.

I welcome the GAA's decision to fulfil the fixture between Kildare and Mayo in Newbridge. It is a great decision. Getting a home venue in the draw was good for Kildare in the first instance, but the GAA administrators made a mess of it. They have eventually found their common sense, read their own rule book and decided that the fixture should go ahead in Newbridge on Saturday. I will welcome everyone from Mayo to Kildare where most Mayo supporters are living not only for the GAA match at 7 p.m. but also the Irish Derby at the Curragh earlier in the afternoon.

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

I wish to raise a simple issue which the Leader might note and pass on to the Minister for Education and Skills. A request has been made for an ASD unit at a secondary school, Columba College, in Killucan which was refused previously. Some of the kids in the area must travel more than 50 miles to be accommodated in an adequate second level ASD unit. Many representations have been made. On the ground, the county mayor, Mr. Jonathan Shaw, as well as Deputies Robert Troy and Peter Burke have been raising the matter, on which there is cross-party unity. The school has a new principal, Mr. Dermot Brady, who is doing great work. If the Leader could mention the request to the Minister, I would be delighted to hear the response.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator for his brevity.

Aodhán Ó Ríordáin (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I join the calls for a debate on education, in particular, teacher shortages and pay equalisation. I understand there is an ongoing conversation between the teacher unions and the Minister for Education and Skills and the Department. To refresh the memories of some Members in this Chamber who may have forgotten, pay inequality started on 1 January 2011, prior to the 2011 general election. It is high time the House had a conversation about teacher shortages and pay inequality and the associated issue of correcting examination papers. As there is low morale in the teaching profession as matters stand, this House needs to show leadership by finding solutions. It comes down to pay and respect.

I encourage all Senators to advise their constituents or people with whom they have connections that the Department of Health has an ongoing consultation process this month on the possession of illegal drugs for personal use. It is a welcome survey which can be completed quickly. It feeds into the national conversation about the potential for the decriminalisation of drug use. Having held a public meeting last night in Donnycarney with Fr. Peter McVerry, Senator Lynn Ruane and Ms Anna Quigley of CityWide, the public is interested in changing our approach. The change in approach in Portugal 15 years ago has led to a 50% reduction in the number of people involved in heroin addiction programmes and a 75% reduction in the number of deaths by fatal overdose. Were that to happen in Ireland, there would be a major change in the addiction problem. We have significant addiction issues, with the third highest fatal overdose rate in Europe.

If the Cathaoirleach will permit me to do so, I congratulate the GAA on its decision this morning to hold the game between Kildare and Mayo in Newbridge on Saturday night. Some may criticise Senators for raising GAA matters in the House, but the GAA is an important organisation in the country. The decision that Kildare will play the game in Newbridge on Saturday night is a very good one. I congratulate Kildare, in particular, for taking a stand and winning out. One never knows - that level of enthusiasm and motivation might continue with Kildare's efforts on the field. As a Dub, we will beat whoever comes out of the game.

Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is such a thing as false modesty.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Tá na Ciarraígh ag teacht.

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

I agree with Senator Marie-Louise O'Donnell in her view on the Sparkasse banking model, for which Ireland is waiting. From speaking to people at the German embassy, I know that it has been a major success. It is a local bank and a people's bank. We need to do more in that regard. It would help the Irish banking system.

I agree with Senators Victor Boyhan and David Norris. We are in a very dangerous situation. Recently I read an interesting article written by Fr. Gerard Moloney in The Irish Timeswhich was headed, "Beware the new Ireland does not become as oppressive as the old". He wrote:

A healthy church does not require the state to enforce its moral code for it, as the Irish church did. A strong state does not abandon the care of its most vulnerable citizens to private religious institutions, as the Irish State did.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Hear, hear.

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

I listened to people on radio recently. What is happening is petty and cynical and denying people the right to see the Pope or their spiritual leader. We talk about celebrating diversity and encouraging difference, but what is happening does not do that. I appeal to those who are using this situation. What is happening is petty and wrong and they do not have the support of the vast majority of people in the State. I listened to a vox pop on radio when people were asked whether they had obtained tickets to see the Pope in Knock or Dublin. Most of those leaving mass were elderly and did not have the wherewithal to apply online, but they were not complaining. They have been the backbone not just of the Catholic Church but also of the State; therefore, I would be disappointed if they were left out of a unique, significant and joyous occasion. I hope the church and the organisers have some mechanism in place to ensure elderly people - the ones interviewed were committed churchgoers - will receive tickets.

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

Unfortunately, with everything being done online, they are being left out.

Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I would like to say a few sentences about last Sunday's Ulster football finals in Clones which I had the pleasure of attending. I congratulate Donegal on winning the senior championship and Derry on its success in the U20 championship. As the House knows, the senior match was attended by the leader of the DUP, Ms Arlene Foster. It was a positive and welcome development. From speaking to GAA personnel at the game, the visit went well; she was gracefully received and enjoyed the day out. She was duly accompanied by the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Heather Humphreys. I look forward to seeing both attending many more GAA matches in the days and years ahead.

I wish to discuss Clones as a venue. The GAA is considering building a new stadium in Casement Park in Belfast. That is to be welcomed, but I ask the Leader to use his good offices and intervene with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport. The carnival atmosphere in Clones last Sunday was something to behold.The sun was high in the sky. One can imagine a crowd of more than 30,000 assembled in a small rural town such as Clones, with a population of fewer than 2,000 people. The good people of Clones opened their arms, as they do every year, to all the visitors who came for the final. The atmosphere was marvellous and could not be replicated anywhere else in the country.

Another issue is the economic benefit such a crowd brings to a town like Clones. We all speak of trying to sustain rural Ireland. The difference an Ulster final makes to a town like Clones is the difference between businesses being able to keep their doors open and having to close their doors. That is the reality, as business owners will tell us. Holding an Ulster final in Belfast would be no big deal for the city because its population is so large and it hosts different events every day of the week. However, for a town like Clones, hosting the Ulster final is the difference between businesses being able to keep their doors open and closing down. I ask the Leader to raise this issue with the Minister of State with responsibility for sport and perhaps liaise with the GAA, which has roots in every parish in rural and urban Ireland, to have it consider retaining the Ulster final in its true birthplace of Clones.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator is in injury time.

Aodhán Ó Ríordáin (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We need video assisted refereeing.

Catherine Ardagh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Fine Gael has been in power since 2011.

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

We have people leaving the country.

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

There are 10,000 people homeless in 2018.

Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Governments do not create jobs; businesses do.

Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

If the Leader thinks the recovery is down to the brilliance of Fine Gael, which oversaw the farce that was Irish Water, he has another think coming.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I think the Senators are saying we have not reached utopia yet.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Please.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We do not have competition.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator sounds as if he is.

A Senator:

That is because the Senator is not listening.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am listening.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is no competition.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is philosophy. I am into the reality now.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is not.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Is the Leader accepting the amendment to the Order of Business?

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is obfuscation.

Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Will Senator Buttimer indicate when it will be?

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

A point of order.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

A point of clarification.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

If the Leader listened to what I said, I was talking about bringing the Minister, Deputy Naughten, in to start the debate on community banking.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

This is fantastic stuff. He is in charge of the post offices.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We are speaking about community banking because it was going to be channelled through the post offices and we were not going to build little tin huts around the country where they could find a place. The idea that he is now not in charge of something is complete obfuscation.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

No. This is like-----

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is one way out of this.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator O'Donnell can press her amendment.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I understand obfuscation when I hear it.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He used to be in charge of post offices and then ran away from them.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He is.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I-----

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I cannot allow-----

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Can I finish on this? I have asked for-----

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator can press her amendment.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator should stop it. He was watching his phone anyway and not even listening.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator was not listening. He never listens. He only listens to his own voice and then goes on his phone.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I cannot allow people to come back in.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I do not bring technological advantage into this House. I use my own brain and voice and listen to what other Senators have to say, which is something the Labour Party does not do.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Do not make disparaging remarks.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He should not make them at me.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator has a very simple solution. If she is not happy with his response, she can press the amendment. She is quite entitled to.

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

No. A point of correction-----

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Please, Senator Murnane O'Connor-----

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

No, no, that is totally wrong.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Listen to the Chair, please. Sit down.

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

That is absolutely, totally wrong.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Please, sit down.

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

I said there has been confusion. I never said anything about anyone correcting them.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Please sit down.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Can I make the point that when the Leader is responding-----

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

He was wrong.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Please listen to me for a second. I am the Chair. It is most abnormal and unusual that anyone would come in when the Leader is responding. I allowed Senator O'Donnell on a point of clarification.

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

I had a point of clarification.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I cannot allow people to hop up and hop down and interrupt the business.

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

On a point of clarification, he was wrong.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator can clarify tomorrow.

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

I did not say that.

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

No one said that.

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

I said there was confusion.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Please respect the Chair.

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

I think the Leader is confused. He is very confused.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Or stand yourself, Senator.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator would be an ideal candidate.

Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We have agreement at long last.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Before another row erupts I would like at this juncture to welcome a group of visitors in the Gallery from God's own country the parish of Muintir Bhaire, Durrus and Durrus Men's Shed.

Up to four months ago, I was somewhat oblivious and ignorant of the tremendous work that men's sheds do until they invited me to one of their meetings. It was an eye opener for me. I think they do tremendous work. They should be applauded for their camaraderie. I am not sure how they found their way up in this fine weather. I crossed the Goats Path, Cosan an Gahair, yesterday morning at 10.30 a.m. and I thought I was already in heaven, but I found out that I was not dead. The group are most welcome and I hope they enjoy their visit.

Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Cork South-Central.

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

I am very disappointed that the Leader did not recognise fellow Corkmen.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator Marie-Louise O'Donnell has moved an amendment to the Order of Business: "That a debate with the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment on the publication of a report on the introduction of community banking be taken today." Is the amendment being pressed?

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

May I ask the Leader if it would be possible, since a precedent was set by the then Senator Averil Power in the last Seanad, that when the report is published we might be able to arrange that both the Minister for Finance, Deputy Paschal Donohoe, and the Minister for Rural and Community Development or the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment come to the Chamber?

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Love and affection.

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I would be well able for both of them.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Is the amendment being pressed?

Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

No.