Blockchain and digital euro debate
Senator Byrne raised blockchain awareness week. The Leader said a debate on technology and the digital euro could be sought in the autumn, and also praised Wexford County Council's age-friendly strategy.
I must learn a bit more about it. He has requested at debate around technology and the digital euro which is coming down the line. It is unlikely we will get a chance to have this debate before recess with the amount of legislation coming through the House. Certainly when we get into the autumn session it would be a good debate to schedule. We will make this request.
I commend Wexford County Council for launching its second age-friendly strategy with the Minister of State, Deputy Butler. It is very welcome to see.
Senator Craughwell spoke very passionately about the five soldiers in the 85th Infantry Battalion who are still waiting for their medals. Private Billy Kedian, Lieutenant Morgan, Sergeant Spellman and Privates Carr and Clarke. I concur with all of the Senator's remarks and I thank him for putting it on the record of the House. We hope to see this matter resolved without further delay.
Senator Paul Gavan spoke about Shannon Airport and rebalancing. I have dealt with this. He also spoke about the Passport Office. Almost every Member of the House has spoken about the passport service in recent times. It is a disaster zone for certain passports, mainly first-time passports for children. I do not know what to say about the man who has throat cancer. It is an appalling story. I hope he gets sorted with the document he is entitled to get.