It is great to see the Minister back again. Community safety is a fundamental right. Too often we discuss crime and safety with the focus placed on urban areas. There is no doubt the cities face serious crime issues but the conversation cannot ignore rural Ireland, where crime, harassment and fear are just as real and sometimes more so given the lack of Garda presence and resources. For example, in my constituency, the community of Charleville lives in absolute fear due to massive antisocial issues. There have been…

I want to echo the sentiments of Senator McDowell and others in this House. For us, this is our first test of justice and fairness. We talk about this and we all work together but the system here right now is not just and fair. It is in favour of other people. I want to talk about this because I feel really strongly about it. For years and years, I have not seen someone who looks like me or who looks like Senator Flynn in the Seanad, making decisions and talking about issues that affect me and the people on the gro…

I congratulate the Leas-Chathaoirleach on taking up her new position. I am delighted to hear she will be working with everyone on a cross-party basis. I welcome the Minister. I strongly support the EU–UK scheme. Naturally, there will be many benefits for Ireland. If we opt in, it will benefit the students of the UK equally. Travel and cultural exchanges enrich both sides. The scheme would allow easier access for exchange programmes, improved pathways for young professionals to work across the border, and enhanced c…

I request the Minister to come to the House to discuss and follow through on abolishing means testing for carers. During the election campaign, I met many carers in my area, as I am sure other Senators did. Care and social care professions predominantly involve females. I met people who were at their wits' end - they were in tears - because they could not make ends meet because of the means testing of carers. They are fantastic people. They are committed and give their lives to caring for people, but no one takes c…

Déanaim comhghairdeas leis an gCathaoirleach on his appointment. It is an honour and a privilege to rise today in this Chamber and address Seanadóirí agus muintir na hÉireann as a newly elected Member of Seanad Éireann. I do so with immense gratitude to those who have placed their trust in me and a profound sense of duty to serve the people of Ireland and my area in Cork North-West. I take my seat in this House at a time of great challenge and even greater opportunity. Ireland as a nation is resilient and progressi…