Ahead of our next speaker, I welcome Councillor Moegie Maher to the Seanad. He is watching proceedings.

Before we move to the next speaker, I welcome the guests of Ronan Smith, House detective, to the Gallery.

I welcome the Minister of State to the Seanad. It is important that we have this opportunity to speak to him today about an issue that affects us all. It is not just a matter of statistics, but is about the lives of our fellow citizens and the safety of our families, friends and communities. Over the past two decades we have seen a significant reduction in road fatalities in Ireland. In 1997, we tragically lost 472 lives on our roads. By 2021, this number had been reduced to 137. This transformation is a testament …

I raise the issue of the tools available to councillors to enable them to effectively represent and advocate for their communities. South Dublin County Council has an online system called Membersnet. It allows public representatives - TDs and Senators can also use it - to put in queries and advocate for the people who need their assistance. This is an effective way for public representatives to communicate with the local authority and keep track of their queries. I was surprised to learn that not all local authorit…

I wish the Minister well in his role. I welcome this discussion on Ireland's national plan under the Common Agricultural Policy and its implications for our agrifood sector. The agrifood sector remains the backbone of our economy, comprising 173,000 jobs and accounting for 10% of Irish exports. This sector is not only critical to our economy but also central to our rural communities, where our farmers are the social, economic and cultural pillars. Our farmers are world-class food producers and their dedication to e…

I welcome the Minister to the House. No. 1 is the Health (Scoliosis Treatment Services) Bill 2024 – Committee Stage. This debate is to adjourn after two hours if not previously concluded.

I call Senator Duffy, and I remind Senators we are speaking to section 1.

I thank the Minister for coming to the House. In the week that we celebrate International Women's Day, I am glad to say that we are witnessing a shift. Women are rising up and finding their voices, and no longer accept a substandard approach to their healthcare. We are demanding and achieving better services and care. Above all, we are demanding to be heard when it comes to our health. For far too long, certain aspects of women's health were not discussed openly. This may have been due to embarrassment or an ingrai…

I welcome the debate and support the motion. We can build on the positive steps taken by the Government in the previous term, particularly in focusing on the needs and care of older people. This is a subject close to my heart. Care and respect for older people are things that truly drive me as a politician. Some of my dearest friends in recent years have been my elderly constituents and their experiences have shaped my perspective. For far too long, the needs of older people in our society were not given the proper…

I will speak about concerning wait times for dental health appointments for children. It was discussed quite a bit yesterday in the other House. Kids' dental health is very important, keeping our children mindful of good oral hygiene and, equally, any work that needs to be done to their teeth. I have spoken to people in my constituency of Dublin South-West whose children have had to wait unacceptably long times for routine examinations and simple treatments such as seals done to their teeth. An example is children …

St. Patrick's Day is fast approaching and, after six years, my community of Tallaght will see its parade return. My community is often portrayed in a negative manner. The absence of a St. Patrick's Day parade in the area for the six years since 2019 was very much evident in the hearts of all the people of Tallaght. South Dublin County Council recognised the need to have a parade and, in conjunction with local groups, organisations and sports clubs, it is due to make a return this year. I have many fond memories of …

I would like to speak about breast cancer screening and symptomatic breast cancer services for younger women. There is a rise in younger women being diagnosed with breast cancer and we need to move with the times when dealing with this. Last week, on 4 February, we marked World Cancer Day. This year, the story of a young woman, Ziva Cussen, was covered in the media. She went to her GP with a lump on her breast and at times was reassured there was nothing to worry about. It took six months for a scan to take place. …

I congratulate the Cathaoirleach on his election. I am sure he will do a fine job. I was not going to speak, but as my son is sitting in the Gallery I decided it would be a missed opportunity not to acknowledge him and my very close family friend Frank. Unfortunately, my father and mother cannot be here today as my father is extremely unwell, but I know he would be so proud of me. A degree did not get me here today. I come from Tallaght, similar to Senator Ruane, and it was hard work and dedication to my community …