I thank all Senators for their contributions. There were a number of requests for statements on various issues, which I will bring back to the relevant Departments.

Senators Dooley and Hoey raised the question of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the horrific scenes we are currently witnessing in Rafah. They welcomed the decision of Ireland, along with Norway and Spain, to recognise the State of Palestine today. As Senator Dooley said, the recognition of the State of Palestine in no way condones the horrific actions of Hamas. As a State, we continue to call for an immediate ceasefire, the release of the hostages, and a move towards a long-term peaceful solution, where all the people of Palestine and Israel can live in peace and security. On Senator Hoey's point about the shows of international solidarity, there are many examples whereby we can show solidarity with innocent civilians who are suffering.

It is clear that discussion on the budget is now moving into full swing because a number of budgetary matters were raised. I suspect that we will see many more contributions on budgetary matters in the months ahead. Senator Burke once again raised the issue of the restoration of the temporary 9% VAT rate in the case of food, which he looked at in the context of supporting the very important tourism and hospitality industry. The Ministers for Finance and public expenditure are considering all these issues.

I noticed Senator Keogan in her discussion of capital gains tax raised the concept of a notional spouse or, indeed, where a durable relationship exists-----

In making her budget submissions to the Minister, I might ask the Senator to quite clearly define what she means by a durable relationship. In the context of something like tax, we should provide certainty on that. I thought that there was a relative degree of certainty as to what a durable relationship meant but, given that Senator Keogan has now-----

-----raised the need-----

The Acting Leader without interruption.

-----for capital gains tax in the context of durable relationships, providing a definition could certainly be helpful.

Senators McGreehan and Boyhan raised the issue of victims of thalidomide, as both have done in the House previously. They have both been very strong advocates on behalf of the Irish Thalidomide Association. I agree that this has gone on for far too long. What the House could do is invite statements on the issue of thalidomide at some stage. I certainly echo and agree with their calls on that issue.

Senator Davitt raised the matter of sustainable transport, which, again, relates to budgetary considerations. He will be aware that this Government has presided over very significant reductions in transport fees and provided incentives for people to use public transport. However, looking at things like a VAT reduction on electric bikes, in the context of budgetary considerations, to support active travel is something I am quite certain the Minister for Finance would consider.