Charlie Flanagan, TD

The new fodder scheme is good news for farmers, but there are more immediate things that can and should be done to relieve the burden on the farming community right now, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

 Yesterday, I resigned from the office of Taoiseach by placing my resignation in the hands of the President, pursuant to the Constitution. I have had the privilege to serve for the past 20 years as a public representative, 13 as a member of Cabinet, seven as leader of my Party, as Taoiseach, Tánaiste and Taoiseach again. It's been the most fulfilling and rewarding time of my life.  Today is the beginning of a new era for my Party, a new chapter in my life and a new phase for the coalition Government.

A dhaoine uaisle, a chairde, oíche mhaith agaibh go léir agus fáilte go Gaillimh. I am deeply honoured to address you this evening in Ollscoil na Gaillimh as I prepare to take on the greatest challenge of my life.

Commissioner, Oireachtas members, former Oireachtas members, councillors, members of executive council, delegates, and friends. Fáilte chuig Ollscoil na Gallimhe agus a 82ú Ard Fheis Fhine Gael. Delegates, this is my fourteenth Ard Fheis and the last that at which I will speak to you as Taoiseach and Party President. I want to take this opportunity to thank you all for your loyalty, your hard work, your support, and your friendship for the 7 years I spent as Party Leader and 13 years in Government. 

Childcare supply must be boosted nationwide by both changes to the planning system and access to subsidies for childminding, Fine Gael Senator Emer Currie has said.

Minister Heather Humphreys TD has said she is honoured at being appointed Deputy Leader of Fine Gael by the new leader of the party, Minister Simon Harris TD.

The new leader of Fine Gael has given a firm commitment that the party will continue to back and champion rural Ireland and the agriculture sector at a meeting with a party representative group.

The new leader of Fine Gael has said businesses will continue to be supported and their challenges will be responded to at a meeting with a party representative group.

A tailored hospitality VAT rate is necessary to support small businesses disproportionately affected by an avalanche of cost increases, Fine Gael Senator has said.

Consumers should be allowed to cancel their TV and internet service contracts without giving 30 days notice, a Fine Gael Senator has said.