I condemn what is happening in the Middle East and the actions of the US and Israel. It is a failing of the Government that it was not able to condemn the attacks that happened over the weekend. We have a responsibility as a State to be clear on where we stand on such matters.

Second, in relation to this, we saw a rise in heating oil prices in recent days. This is a blatant attempt by companies to take advantage of international instability, and the Government has to act. The Labour Party has been clear that the Consumer Protection Act 2007 can be used and we could set a maximum price based on last Friday's heating oil prices so that homes are not affected. This affects many people. We spoke in this Chamber last week about disabled people who have to choose between eating and heating. That is unacceptable. This will put more people into poverty, families who cannot afford this during a cost-of-living crisis. We need action from the Government and we need it to happen now.

I also raise the issue of Bessborough in Cork and state on the record my dismay and worry at the granting of planning permission for 140 apartments on that site. Survivors of mother and baby homes are in shock because of this decision. Appeals will be lodged. One of them will be by Councillor Peter Horgan whom I work with in Cork and others by survivors who object to it. There will be a vigil on the site on International Women's Day, which is fitting, to commemorate those who died and those who are still seeking justice.