Senator Maria Byrne

Fine Gael TD for Cavan/Monaghan, Joe O’Reilly, has said that the new state-of-the-art DNA Database System, which will come into operation on 20th November 2015, is another important tool that Gardaí can use to tackle crime.

“Between 2011 and 2014, €190.2 million has been saved by detecting fraudulent social welfare claims”, says Derek Keating, Fine Gael TD for Dublin Mid-West. Deputy Keating received this information on foot of a parliamentary question he submitted to the Department of Social Protection.

The Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, T.D. has expressed his shock at the events unfolding in France this evening.

European Central Bank President, Mario Draghi, today (Thursday) answered questions in the European Parliament's ECON committee on the circumstances that led to the Irish bailout. Brian Hayes MEP, who questioned the ECB President, commented that ECB actions ultimately made the bailout situation worse for Ireland.

Fine Gael TD for Cork South Central, and Chairperson of the Oireachtas Committee on Health, Jerry Buttimer, has said that the package of patient safety measures, announced by Minister for Health Leo Varadkar, are very welcome and will be a significant boost to patient confidence.

In line with our strategy to secure regional recovery, we have specifically prioritised new investment for Cork and the South West region.

Fine Gael TD for Cork South Central, Jerry Buttimer, has said that the news of Apple’s expansion is great for Cork and an important vote of confidence in the county.

Fine Gael Cork North Central Senator, Colm Burke, has welcomed Apple’s announcement of 1,000 new jobs, saying it is a huge boost for Hollyhill and Cork.