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Seanad
‹ Order of Business

Tourism and education matters

Summary

The Leader agrees to seek a tourism debate and refers to transport’s role, while also giving brief updates on the Central Applications Office and examination marking.

The IHF has an obligation to reflect on its role in promoting the tourism strategy and attracting tourists to the country.

Senator James Reilly referred to the importance of transport. I will happily ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to come to the House for a debate on the issue.

Senator Gerry Horkan made reference to the Central Applications Office and the leaving certificate examination results. The examination papers are being corrected. There are people in rooms across the country busily correcting papers and I wish them well. The future of a generation is in their hands and I hope it will go well for them. However, it is important that, as part of the housing strategy to be unveiled next week by the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, the provision of third level student accommodation be addressed because the issue is significant for parents in terms of affordability, for students in terms of availability and for communities which are, in some cases, ravaged by rented houses and other associated difficulties.

Senator Kieran O'Donnell referred to the adjournment and rolling over of debates. I will be happy to do whatever the House decides. The point raised by the Senator is a good one as sometimes a debate loses its impetus. I thank Members for participating in the debate yesterday and reassure them that it is not the Government's intention to stall Senator Michael McDowell's Bill on Seanad reform. However, it is important to give Members an opportunity to contribute on Second Stage, if they so wish. The Government will not oppose the Bill. The debate yesterday was good. As I said, it is important that Members be given an opportunity to articulate their viewpoint on how Senators are elected.

I ask Senators to withdraw the amendment proposed to the Order of Business. I am happy to work with them to find a solution.

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