We use Google Analytics to see which pages are read and how the site is used, so we know what to improve. This only runs if you accept. See our privacy notice for details.

Seanad
‹ Order of Business

Domestic violence legislation

Summary

The Leader welcomed the domestic violence campaign and said the promised Bill is vital, placing women and families at the centre. He also agreed to facilitate an early ministerial appearance.

Senator Rose Conway-Walsh raised the issue of 16 days of action on domestic violence against women and commended Women's Aid on its campaign. We have had this on the Order of Business in recent weeks. Senator Ardagh made a very fine contribution on it. The Senator is right. It is important that we have the legislation. The domestic violence Bill, which the Minister is committed to publishing and enacting, will be critical and it will put women and families at the centre of the legislation. We need that enabling legislation. We also need resourcing. The Senator is correct. We must protect women and children and, in some cases, men who have been abused. The Government "What would you do?" campaign is one we should get behind. We should work together to eliminate the awfulness of what is happening. If one meets women and children and talks to them about their life stories and what has happened to them, it is devastating. We all have a duty to get behind the campaign.

Senator Gallagher raised the issue-----

Comment on this

As it is 16 days of action, can we ask for the Minister to come in as early as possible during those 16 days?

Comment on this

I would be happy to facilitate that.

Senator Gallagher raised the issue of stroke survivors. We have a national stroke strategy. The Senator's point is well made. There needs to be joined-up thinking to improve outcomes, have people treated more quickly and recognise the symptoms. Yesterday, Senator McFadden raised the issue of the community geriatrician. It is about primary care and expanding the way we run our health system. It is important.

I neglected to mention Senator Mac Lochlainn's comments on hospital services. It is important that we acknowledge that the Minister for Health has the highest health budget in the history of the State. What we need to see is a change in how the HSE and hospital groups deliver that budget. It is no good saying we have a budget of €14.2 billion. The issue is how it is administered and distributed. The Senator referred to a hospital. The former Minister, Senator James Reilly was there. Senator Mac Lochlainn and the Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach, Deputy Joe McHugh, have been very strong on that issue. It is important to recognise we have seen greater initiatives created by the Government. One person too many on a trolley or waiting list is not good enough. The winter initiative has seen extra money. I would be happy to bring the matter of Letterkenny hospital to the Minister's attention.

Comment on this