I welcome the Bill, which is a welcome one for SMEs. Before I commence, I thank the Minister of State, Deputy English, for coming into the House and for his detailed overview of the Bill in the past ten to 12 minutes. I also thank the Minister of State, Deputy Troy, the current Minister with responsibility for business, Deputy Varadkar, and the previous Minister, Deputy Humphreys, for their work during this difficult time in respect of SMEs. As all public representatives will be aware, Covid-19 has been devastating…

I welcome the fact Ireland is opening up and that sports clubs across the country are getting back to training and to participation in sport, which is vital. We, as a House, need to lead in terms of financial support for sports clubs, whether they are GAA, soccer or rugby clubs or whatever the case may be. The Cathaoirleach will be well aware of the officers and volunteers who run these clubs and the huge financial costs involved. I refer to the 31 local authorities. In Galway city, for example, clubs might have tw…

It is an absolute privilege and honour to be elected to Seanad Éireann. I take this opportunity to thank my family, friends and supporters after a difficult general election campaign. The public representatives and the councillors across Ireland put their faith in me, and I will do all within my remit to honour the trust and belief they placed in me on 2 April. As you said at the outset, a Chathaoirligh, to try and fail is understandable, and to fail to try is unacceptable. You have been a while on the road, and to…