I propose an amendment to the Order of Business: "That No. 11 be taken before No. 1." The reason for this is the introduction of my Bill, the Control of Dogs (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024. I care for animal welfare. I believe that those who neglect animals or behave recklessly should be penalised. This Bill will strengthen the legislation in respect of the control of dogs. I have worked with them on this Bill which will really highlight and advocate for positive change in legislation regarding microchipping, licensing, introduction of dog control notices and a few other things. While we are talking about dog control and we have the group set up across Departments, it would be really good to use my Bill as a template to move forward on dog control.

I want to honour a good friend of mine, Kenneth McBride, who lost his battle with cancer on Friday night. He was chair of Glenmore Athletic Club, my athletics club and he will be so sadly missed. He was a fantastic sportsman. He fought his illness with such courage and dignity. We had a sad but wonderful send-off in the community in north Louth, in the Cooley Peninsula.

Rest in peace Kenneth. He will be very sadly missed.