I am aware that direct provision comes under the Department of Justice and Equality but public health testing for Covid-19 and guidance for tackling the disease comes under the Minister's Department. Will the Minister answer the following questions directly? Does the Minister believe it was right that residents located in four different emergency accommodation centres across Dublin were transferred to the direct provision centre at Cahersiveen without being tested for Covid-19? Was there infection in any of these e…

First, I want to outline that earlier this week I met the leadership of the IFA in County Kerry. We had a comprehensive meeting because the representatives knew there would be speaking time before the Minister this evening. It is important to speak on behalf of the farmers and not only those from Kerry. The farmers in Kerry have the same problems as farmers from around the country. What I would like to do is address the issue of the €24 million that was unspent last year from the beef exceptional aid measure. At th…

Will the Ceann Comhairle give him a little more time? After coming all the way from Kerry to hear what he has to say, will you give him one minute?

Will you give him a chance, please?

I agree with the objections made and will give an example of why the Deputies are correct in what they have stated. This is changing so quickly. One of the consequences the country is facing is that home help hours have not been reduced but completely cut. That is a consequence of the decisions that had to be taken. I am supporting the Minister for Health in this 100% and commending him. However, when a result like that comes from decisions that have been taken, I believe we have to be able to stand clear. We have …

I too would like to say how important it is for us to acknowledge the sadness and heartache endured by families throughout the country who have lost friends and relatives over the past number of days and weeks. We are so sorry for that. Our thoughts, prayers and consideration are with people who are ill, either at home or in our hospitals. It is right and proper for us to be here today in this organised and proper fashion. I could not agree more with those who spoke at the beginning of the session that this is only…

I sincerely congratulate the Ceann Comhairle on his election, which is a great honour for him, his family and his supporters. You got a great endorsement from a majority in the House, which must be very much respected. I humbly thank the people of County Kerry who voted for me and sent me here again. I thank all the people who worked on my campaign and I appreciate their efforts very much. Over the next number of days and weeks, a very serious job must be carried out by the political parties and Independents electe…