Leader’s responses to Senators’ requests
The Leader responds to outstanding requests concerning the commemorations programme, the Cavan campus, charity funding, the Waterford blaa and regulation of accountants, promising correspondence or further updates where appropriate.
Senator Michael Mullins asked for an update from the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Jimmy Deenihan, on the decade of commemorations, with specific reference to what would happen in 2016. I note his comments in that regard.
Senator Diarmuid Wilson called for an update on the plans of the Minister for Education and Skills for the site of a former Army camp. I will correspond with the Minister in that regard.
Senator John Gilroy spoke about funding for Samaritans in Cork. Many charities are in difficulty and the Senator called for a debate on their funding.
Senator Catherine Noone spoke about something that is very close to my heart and stomach, the Waterford blaa. I will have to bring some of them for the Senator to sample.
Comment on this
The humble blaa has made its way onto the plates of many of the finest restaurants in the city. We are proud of this humble product in Waterford which dates back to the Huguenots.
We are delighted that the European Commission recognises the geographical significance of this fine food.
Comment on this
In Waterford we eat our blaas in the mornings, as they do not last much longer. We like them fresh and hot.
Comment on this
Senator Sean D. Barrett raised the issue of accountability and the regulation of accountants. I note that he has tabled a number of amendments to the Companies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2013. I hope we will have a significant debate on Committee Stage of the Bill this week.