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Minister Shatter publishes General Scheme of Children and Family Relationships Bill for consultation

Alan Shatter TD, Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence, today published the General Scheme of a Children and Family Relationships Bill.

O’Donovan blasts empty Opposition benches

Fine Gael Limerick TD, Patrick O’Donovan, has today (Thursday) strongly criticised members of the Opposition for failing to be present in the Dáil chamber earlier for four stages of the European Parliament Elections Amendment Bill.

Political leaders must work together to advance Bosnia and Herzegovinas EU prospects - Minister Donohoe

Speaking at an address at the University of Sarajevo in Bosnia this evening (Thursday), Minister for European Affairs, Paschal Donohoe TD, said that in order for advances to be made towards membership of the European Union for Bosnia and Herzegovina a credible effort would have to be made by political leaders on all sides (see full speech below).

Politics to be included as new subject at Leaving Cert - Daly

Fine Gael Cork South West TD, Jim Daly, has received confirmation from the Minister for Education, Ruairí Quinn TD, that he has agreed to have ‘Politics and Society’ taught as a subject at Leaving Certificate level.

Response by Minister of State Dinny McGinley on behalf of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence, Alan Shatter TD

I wish to thank the Senator for raising this matter on the adjournment today. I am speaking on behalf of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence who regrets that he is unable to be present due to other business.

Speech by Minister Frances Fitzgerald, T. D. At Launch of Child and Family Agency

Taoiseach Enda Kenny apologises to Louise O’Keeffe

Taoiseach Enda Kenny today apologised to abuse survivor Louise O’Keeffe.

Buttimer welcomes extension of time for Constitutional Convention

Cork South Central Fine Gael TD and member of the Constitutional Convention, Jerry Buttimer, in welcoming the extension of time granted to the Constitutional Convention, has said that this will enable it to complete its work as delegated by the Oireachtas. Deputy Buttimer was commenting after Dáil Éireann approved a Resolution following a decision of Government to extend the mandate given to the Constitutional Convention to complete its programme of works until 31st March 2014.

Byrne welcomes announcement of over 30 new jobs in the Liberties

Fine Gael Dublin South Central TD, Catherine Byrne, has today (Wednesday) welcomed the announcement of a €10 million investment by the Teeling Whiskey Company in a new distillery and visitor centre at Newmarket Square in Dublin's Liberties. The distillery will create over 30 new jobs as well as 50 jobs in the construction phase.

Conway calls for Garda Reserve to be involved in prevention of crime against the elderly

Clare Fine Gael Senator, Martin Conway, has today (Wednesday) called on the Minister for Justice and Equality, Alan Shatter TD, and the Garda Commissioner to consider extending the role of the Garda Reserve to include initiatives to reduce crime against the elderly. Senator Conway raised the issue with Minister Shatter during a Seanad adjournment debate this week.

Keane calls for review of commercial rates imposed on GAA, FAI and IRFU

Fine Gael Dublin Senator, Cáit Keane, has today (Wednesday) called for a re-assessment of the new commercial rates set by Dublin City Council for Croke Park and the Aviva Stadium, after it was announced that rates will more than double on each stadium. Senator Keane added that the Government should re-examine the new Valuation Bill to include a derogation for sporting organisations.

Use of old tyres could help prevent coastal and river erosion – Carey

Clare Fine Gael TD, Joe Carey, has suggested old car tyres should be used in port, coastal and river areas, to help prevent flooding and erosion. Deputy Carey added that the move could help to prevent the sort of damage caused by the recent storms in coastal areas around the country.