Loneliness task force
Senator Swanick outlined the loneliness task force report and described loneliness as a serious issue affecting all demographics. The Leader later thanked Members and joined in tributes to Sandy Harsch.
I thank the Members for their contributions to the Order of Business. On my behalf, on behalf of the Fine Gael Party and on behalf of the House, I join Senator Norris in extending our deepest sympathies to the daughters, brother and sister of Sandy Harsch. Coming here from Rhode Island, she brought an encyclopaedic knowledge of country music to our airwaves. Like Senator Norris, we were all impressed by her wonderful voice and her ability to communicate a love of music, particularly in the genre in which she specialised. I pay tribute to her and thank her for opening our minds and hearts to music. I thank Senator Norris for making his remarks this morning. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h-anam dílis.
Senator Clifford-Lee referred to the sports capital programme. I remind the Senator that her own constituency benefited as a result of this Government and that which preceded it reopening that programme. This year, €40 million will be allocated to improve sporting and community facilities. If we engaged in a trawl of the record of members of Fianna Fáil or those of any other party - Senator Ruane also made a contribution in this regard - I am sure we would find a great variety of representations.