I commend Senator Flynn. It sounds like very logical legislation. I am sure our Leader and Deputy Leader will have an interesting conversation with the Senator.

Today, I bring up a topic that is seldom discussed. It might not apply to the Leader or the Cathaoirleach just yet but it is about men's health and a national men's health check from 40 years of age onwards. Our compatriots across the water have a system in place whereby men in the UK between the ages of 40 and 76, without existing conditions, are entitled to a check to assess their heart, diabetes and the possibility or likelihood of having a stroke or being susceptible to stroke. This is not in place in Ireland. As we know, you can get it if you go to a doctor or through any of these private assessment companies but this is very basic.

In a modern, well-educated country, which has great access to everybody - particularly if you want to pay your tax, the State will be fairly aware of where you are - this is a basic. From the age of 40 onwards, there should be an assessment and an outreach to make sure every man in the country has had some contact with a doctor and basic assessment of their general health. Further down the line, it could save the State a considerable amount of money if we put people on the right track as they might not be aware. The first step with this would be to have an awareness day for men's health and dovetail it with assessment from the age of 40 onwards. It would be well worthwhile doing.