A Uachtarán Zelenskyy, a Cheann Comhairle agus a dhaoine uaisle, President Zelenskyy, Ceann Comhairle and distinguished guests, on behalf of Members of both Houses and on my own behalf, I thank you for being here today at the heart of our democracy, and for the address delivered to this joint sitting of Dáil Éireann and Seanad Éireann. In 2022, when I had the privilege of given the closing remarks to your online address to these Houses, I said that as we sat here in Dublin, missiles and bombs were descending on the…

The Joint Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage has completed its consideration of the Planning and Development Act 2024 (Modification) Regulations 2025.

Before I call on the next speaker I welcome Deputy Michael Cahill here today, along with a constituent who is from Ukraine but living in Killarney. I thank Deputy Cahill and his constituent for being here on this historic day when we had the address of her President.

Before I call the next speaker, I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Emer Higgins, and her guests, David and Gerry Fields and Anthony Harte, to the Visitors Gallery.

Senator Rabbitte has proposed an amendment to the Order of Business: "That No. 12 be taken before No. 1." The Leader has indicated he is willing to accept this amendment. Is the amendment agreed to? Agreed.

When is it proposed to take Second Stage?

Is that agreed? Agreed.

Amendments Nos. 9, 33, 34 and 42 to 44, inclusive, are related and may be discussed together by agreement. Is that agreed? Agreed.

Senators will be able to come back in. Give the Minister of State a chance to speak.

If the Minister of State wants to come back in on that, it will be okay. I can allow other Senators to contribute afterwards.

The Senator can come back in after the Minister of State.

The Minister of State, without interruption.

I can bring in Senator Ní Chuilinn and then Senator Ruane if the Minister of State wants to wait.

Okay.

The Minister of State, please, to respond.

Senator Cosgrove is sharing time. Is that agreed? Agreed.

The Minister of State has ten minutes.

We are giving you injury time because we have until 11 o'clock.

When is it proposed to take Committee Stage?

Is that agreed? Agreed.