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

Tory Island ferry service

Summary

The Leader said he would facilitate a debate on the Tory Island ferry and recognised the importance of island connectivity. He wished the islanders well and said he hoped for a successful outcome.

Senator Noone raised the issue of folic acid and the need for a debate around that. It is important that we have a general holistic debate on health because there are very pertinent issues that get lost in the dynamics of the Order of Business in the House, where Members raise the most visible issues although there are other issues that are equally important. I will have that debate.

Senators Ó Domhnaill and Wilson ably represented the islanders of Tory Island in regard to the ferry service and the vessel that is required. I know the Minister of State, Deputy McHugh, has met with islanders and he has engaged on the possibility of a new boat. I am sure that will be brought to a successful conclusion. I am not sure what Senator Wilson was insinuating with his remarks about a former Fine Gael councillor but I am sure everything is above board and-----

Comment on this
Denis O'Donovan An Cathaoirleach Fianna Fáil

I would be inclined not to delve into those issues, Leader.

Comment on this

I was going to say that I will leave that for another day.

I would love to go on holidays with Senator Wilson, by the way. I think we would have a great time on holidays.

Comment on this

I do not know what our respective spouses would think of that.

Comment on this

We could maybe get a caravan on the ferry in the summer.

Comment on this
Denis O'Donovan An Cathaoirleach Fianna Fáil

We would then have a skipper and first mate.

Comment on this

It is an important issue because the issue of the islands is important. It is about connectivity and about ensuring people can live, in this case, on Tory Island and be allowed to have that choice. It is a very important issue and I do not mean to be frivolous about it. The Minister of State, Deputy McHugh has been involved and met with the islanders, and I hope there will be a successful outcome.

Senator Devine raised the issue of well-being and she made a very good point - it is definitely St. Valentine's day if I am agreeing with Senator Devine. The whole issue of well-being is important and we are hoping to have it on the school curriculum. Perhaps the CPP could look at the issue of well-being for the Houses of the Oireachtas as well, because it is important. If one listened to the priest at Ash Wednesday mass this morning, he spoke about that need to be silent, to be reflective and to be at peace.

Comment on this