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
‹ An tOrd Gnó - Order of Business

Order of Business replies

Summary

The Leader replied to several earlier points, addressing the Judicial Council Bill, insurance premiums, the Momo challenge, and disability transport. He also signalled support for the Spinraza families and the need for a Brexit deal.

I commend the 15 Members of the House for their contributions to the Order of Business. Senator Ardagh raised the issue of the Judicial Council Bill. I have sought an update on the status of the Bill. It would be premature to divide the House next week on a Bill that may not be complete for a variety of reasons. I will endeavour to get information for the Senator. I would also say to her that in the Department of Justice and Equality, the focus has been on the Judicial Appointments Commission Bill, which is taking up a lot of the officials' time.

Comment on this
David P.B. Norris Senator David Norris Independent

It is being given careful scrutiny.

Comment on this

The Senator is back again this week for more of it.

Comment on this
David P.B. Norris Senator David Norris Independent

I am. I will be coming from my sick bed.

Comment on this
Denis O'Donovan An Cathaoirleach Fianna Fáil

The Senator might miss some of the start of the Judicial Appointments Commission Bill.

Comment on this

Senator Ardagh has highlighted an important Bill. Senator Lawlor also referenced the issue of insurance costs and premiums. The making of awards by the Judiciary has been addressed by the Minister. I will endeavour to have information for the Senator by next week and I hope she will not divide the House on the matter.

Senators Ardagh and Craughwell raised the Momo challenge. We must all join with the HSE, Suicide Awareness Voices of Education and the International Association for Suicide Prevention. These groups have prepared very important and reflective responses to the challenge, which is having a very negative impact on young people's lives. Through the medium of Oireachtas TV, I appeal to parents, teachers, mental health professionals and young people who are watching and listening. We must be aware of the need to talk with adolescents and children who have heard about or are engaged in any aspect of the challenge. We must appeal to them to express their feelings in response to this game. For young people who have engaged in self-harming behaviours or who have plans, for whatever reason, to engage in behaviour that is not positive, there needs to be a reaching out. I ask all Members to be aware of the impact of this game. I alert them to the email we have received regarding its potential impacts. We must all ensure that those who are most vulnerable are looked after and supported.

I have not got an answer for Senator Ardagh on the issue of the Dublin industrial estates. Perhaps she might put down a Commencement matter. Senator Craughwell also raised the issue of the Defence Forces and we will have a debate on the Defence Forces in due course. I agree with him that there is a need for an address to be made in respect of the payment of fees for those who cannot afford them in labour relations disputes.

Senator Conway-Walsh raised the issue of Translarna. We all welcome its approval. She also referred to Spinraza. It is important that we use language wisely. Nobody is sacrificing anybody on any altar. All of us want to ensure that those who are in need of medical intervention and care receive it. I am a former Chairman of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health and, on World Rare Diseases Day, that committee introduced hearings on rare diseases.

I ask people to listen to the comments made by Dr. Michael Barry in recent days. Pharmaceutical companies should reflect upon the charges and costs they ask us to pay for drugs.

Comment on this
David P.B. Norris Senator David Norris Independent

Hear, hear. Exactly.

Comment on this

We all want to ensure that the ongoing negotiations are successful. As Dr. Barry said, we have not had a final "No". We are very much aware of the frustration, hurt and anger being experienced by a very small group of people and their families. We value the young people who require this drug and we support and understand their position. I ask the pharmaceutical companies to reflect upon the costs they ask the State to pay for the drug. I am happy to have the debate with the Minister in due course.

Senator Dolan raised the issue of disability and public transport. We will have a debate with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Ross, in due course.

Senator Bacik raised the issue of exclusion zones. I am happy to have the Minister to the House to address the matter and have a debate around the issue. It is important to acknowledge the right to protest and the right to assembly, but it is also important to understand that, in this case, women are going to maternity hospitals or doctors' surgeries to seek medical intervention. They should be treated with respect and afforded privacy, not subjected to harassment by anybody over their medical care or needs.

I share Senator Bacik's view on the need for adequate bicycle parking at Leinster House. It should be made easier for those people who cycle to and from Leinster House to park their bikes in a manner that befits the choice they have made.

I commend our colleague, Senator Reilly, on raising the issue of electric car charging points, notwithstanding the difficulties they are now encountering.

The Brexit legislation is passing through the Lower House, and it is envisaged that it will be in this House on 11 March. I will keep Members apprised of the position in due course.

Senator Lawlor raised the issue of changes to work permits. I would be happy to have the Minister come to the House to discuss the matter. I am sure we all agree that the issue of work permits is one that needs to be addressed. We are very much aware of the important role those from abroad play in filling positions in our hospitality sector in particular.

Senator Leyden continues to amuse me. I enjoy his contributions every day, and today is no exception.

Comment on this