Brian Brennan

I thank the Deputy.

Is that agreed? Agreed.

Regarding Irish tourism, I am concerned about the figures that have come out for March. The number of inbound travellers is down and I would like to know what plan is in place to reverse this downward trend. The programme for Government clearly states a commitment to growing the tourism industry and I ask for strong action to support this growth. It is imperative that, as a Government, we continue…

I am listening with great interest to this debate. I am listening not only as a TD but also as a parent. I was there. I have two beautiful young children. One is seven and one is six. My young son has cystic fibrosis. My son was called to Cappagh hospital to see the consultant under investigation. I went there with my wife. We met the consultant. He told us, literally straight away, that my son ne…

On childcare and early learning, new regulations are being put in place for home-based care but continued consultation with the providers is essential. There is major frustration among childcare providers who face great financial pressure and bureaucracy. I engage with experienced operators such as Brigid Fleming in Riverchapel and Frances Burke in Arklow and they are not alone as this is a nation…

For the record, Questions Nos. 1, 2 and 6 will be grouped. I call Deputy Doherty.

I have been informed that they can be grouped.

They can be grouped with other priority questions but not with other oral questions.

I am happy with that.

I acknowledge the Deputy's comments on Mick O'Dwyer. I had a personal involvement with him in Wicklow GAA. I was sponsor and he was manager. He was one of the most amazing characters I have ever come across. The legacy he has left the GAA world is priceless.

We will move on please.

I welcome the programme for Government proposals that we ensure Irish Water prioritises the delivery of the small towns and villages programme. What I am concerned about is that this is not being fed down to Irish Water. Take Aughrim in County Wicklow, for example. No housing developments have been built in more than a decade due to the water plant being at full capacity. Recent correspondence wit…

I seek an update on the progress of the Gorey primary care centre which was first proposed in 2010 and is yet again back on the drawing board. Gorey is a thriving and fast-growing town with a population of more than 35,000 when Courtown and Riverchapel are included, but at the moment it is almost impossible to register with the GP or dentist. I welcome the programme for Government which clearly st…

I refer to a number of pressing issues relating to capital investment in schools in my constituency both in the provision of new buildings and upgrading of existing buildings. I commend the Department on the continuous roll-out of hot meals and free books. I welcome the commitment in the programme for Government to increased facilities for children with additional needs by establishing either new …

I thank the Minister of State for his response. I warmly welcome the word "engagement". That is so important for the key stakeholders, especially the principals of the schools. No doubt these issues are being replicated in many schools. I have to say that the initial response from the Minister and her Department has been very positive and engaging. Simply, joined-up thinking is needed in many of t…

The programme for Government reiterates the intention to continue the development of greenways and cycle routes across Ireland, which I warmly welcome. Greenways have simply transformed rural communities throughout Ireland. However, I want to flag a concern following a decision by An Bord Pleanála to refuse permission to Blessington greenway due to wildlife and environmental concerns. If roadblock…

I would like to re-emphasise how important it is that we have access to our countryside and our greenways.

It would be remiss of me to start without thanking my team in Wexford-Wicklow for putting me in this honourable position. I would like to thank my wife, Michelle, and my children, Seán and Mia. I would also like to thank the incredible support I got from my team in north Wexford and south Wicklow. I look forward to representing the constituency right across the board. I have to mention the town of…