Cork North-Central — week of Mon, 15 Sept

What your Cork North-Central TDs did this week

Mon, 15 Sept – 21 Sept 2025 · 5 TDs · 1 bill voted on · 275 questions · 341 new lobbying filings

Votes this week

An tOrd Gnó - Order of Business

2025-09-17 · 1 vote

The week's Dáil business schedule · motion passed 84–65

Voted for 2 Colm Burke · Pádraig O'Sullivan

Voted against 2 Eoghan Kenny · Thomas Gould

Did not vote 1 Ken O'Flynn

Colm Burke — Fine Gael 1 vote · 14 questions · 92 new lobbying returns

Questions asked 14 total

Health 8 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 1099 of 13 May 2025, the position regarding the status of the 732 (15%) of applications which were returned for more information or were previously approved of the 4,813 applications between December 2023 and December 2024; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48192/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health the alternative supports available to an individual diagnosed with type 2 diabetes aside from insulin tablets and injections; the likelihood of access to real-time continuous glucose monitoring devices; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48193/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health the projected growth in type 1 diabetics using CGM sensors under the community drug scheme; the estimated future monthly expenditure of this initiative; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48194/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health the number of type 2 diabetics who receive multiple daily insulin injections; the waiting list times to be considered, for this method of treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48195/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health if consideration would be given to placing the drug known as Mounjaro under the HSE reimbursable items list as a treatment for obesity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48667/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health if consideration will be given to providing an appointment to a person (details supplied) who urgently requires surgery and has received referral and an updated urgent request from their GP recently; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49053/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health if she will consider establishing a national radiotherapy equipment replacement programme featuring ring-fenced annual funding to support a planned ten-year replacement cycle (details supplied) guided by international best practice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49082/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health if she will consider establishing a national radiotherapy equipment replacement programme featuring ring-fenced annual funding to support a planned ten-year replacement cycle (details supplied) guided by international best practice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49127/25]
Defence 2 questions
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the measures being taken by his Department to create new accommodation for military personnel in Collins Barracks, Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49090/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if his Department's property in Collins Barracks, Cork which is currently vacant will be refurbished to create accommodation for military personnel; if so, the timeline for this refurbishment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49091/25]
Finance 1 question
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider introducing tax relief for club memberships of sporting clubs for the parents of children who join clubs to support more children getting involved in sport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48478/25]
Education 1 question
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Education and Youth the progress made to date toward the construction of new premises at a school (details supplied); when the project will progress to the next stage; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48174/25]
Rural 1 question
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht for an update on a Rural Regeneration and Development Fund category 2 application (details supplied); when it is likely that the next round of funding for category 2 applications will be allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47898/25]
Climate 1 question
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will consider expanding the SEAI warmer homes scheme eligibility to all those over 70 years, regardless of whether they are in receipt of fuel allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49103/25]

New lobbying 92 returns

Dexcom Health
- Diabetes Policy in Ireland
Rosetta Care Ltd Health
- Increased funding supports to independent nursing home operators, legislative changes review, budget submission
Cork Chamber · 10 returns Economic Development and Industry · Children and Youth Affairs · Budgetary matters · Tourism · EU Affairs · Housing · Energy and Natural Resources · Justice and Equality · Transport
- A letter calling on Cork TDs to support Cork Chamber's priorities in the National Development Plan
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
The Irish Farmers' Association - IFA · 10 returns Agriculture · EU Affairs
- Nitrates Derogation - IFA Spring Lobbying 2025
- Nitrates Derogation - IFA Spring Lobbying 2025
- ACRES - IFA Spring Lobbying 2025
- ACRES - IFA Spring Lobbying 2025
- Bovine TB - Spring Lobbying 2025
- Bovine TB - Spring Lobbying 2025
- GAEC-2 - IFA Spring Lobbying 2025
- GAEC-2 - IFA Spring Lobbying 2025
- Mercosur Trade Deal
- Mercosur Trade Deal
Merchants QuayIreland Ltd Community
- Proposals re drug treatment, homelessness, mental health and related matters
Healthy Homes Ireland Housing
- To secure meetings and engage with elected/ designated officials in order to communicate the findings of Healthy Homes Ireland's report; 'Our place: Towards Healthier Greener Homes'.
Irish Association of Social Workers Health
- Opening Statement by the Irish Association of Social Workers (IASW) to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health
The Wheel · 2 returns Health · Community
- The Wheel contacted the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health, requesting to present on funding issues relating to Section 39 organisations who provide services on behalf of the State.
- The Wheel hosted launch event for our Pre-Budget Submission 2026. It comprised a panel discussion with speakers from community and voluntary organisations and an overview of The Wheel's priorities for Budget 2026. We invited Ministers, TDs and Senators from the most relevant departments and joint Oireachtas committees and several attended in person.
Cork Business Association Community
- Meeting with Colm Burke, TD regarding CBA and Cork City Taskforce development
Irish Heart Foundation Health
- Oireachtas Heart and Stroke Group.
Property Owners Association of Ireland Limited (IPOA) Housing
- To outline issues facing landlords in the private rental market.
The Asthma Society of Ireland · 2 returns Health
- Submitting PQs
- Pre-Budget Submission
Home and Community Care Ireland Health
- Engagement with Oireachtas Members on home care issues
Multiple Sclerosis Ireland · 2 returns Health
- Courtesy communications sent to members
- MS Ireland launched Pre-Budget submission
Pender & Associates Ltd · 5 returns Health
- Meeting to discuss home care policy
- Meeting to discuss sleep disorders and sleep health
- Engagement on dental policy
- Engagement in relation to work permit regulations
- Pre-Budget 2026 engagement relating to the needs of oral healthcare
Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Europe) Limited Health
- Meeting to discuss cystic fibrosis in Ireland and access to medicines for CF
Fórsa trade union Education and Training
- Letter and emails seeking support for Fórsa's campaign seeking public sector pension status for school secretaries and caretakers. There was also a briefing held for Oireachtas members in the Oireachtas AV room.
Age & Opportunity Justice and Equality
- Pre-budget Submission (for 2026 Budget)
CPSMA Budgetary matters
- Increase in capitation and funding for primary mangagement bodies
Hanover Media Strategy Limited · 2 returns Health · Children and Youth Affairs
- Meeting request to discuss protection for over 65s in winter flu season
- AV Room Briefing Event to discuss the ongoing crises facing the early years and childcare sector
Mental Health Reform · 2 returns Health
- Mental Health Bill 2024 & mental health party political view points
- Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health: MHR submission and Presentation on observations on the Mental Health Bill
Pro Life Campaign Health
- Meetings with individual Oireachtas members to discuss Positive Pathways campaign
Pinnacle Public Affairs Ltd · 2 returns Health
- Cardiovascular Health Policy in Ireland and the EU
- To engage with key stakeholders on funding for oral health prevention schemes in Budget 2026
Neurological Alliance of Ireland Health
- Call for Investment in Budget 2026 to begin to implement the commitments to the development of neurorehabilitation services within the current Programme for Government
Drury Health
- Request for meetings with DPOs to discuss the role of insourcing in reducing waiting lists in the health service
Roche · 2 returns Health · Economic Development and Industry
- Reform of national pricing and reimbursement systems for new medicines and sustainable increased investment in innovative medicines
- The development of a National Life Science Strategy should embrace international best practices through a coordinated, cross-departmental approach
National Youth Council of Ireland Health
- National Drugs Strategy
GSK · 2 returns Health
- Access and reimbursement timelines for medicines
- Vaccination policy
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals (Ireland) DAC · 3 returns Health
- Sharing a Proposal for an Early Access Programme for Innovative Oncology Medicines Budget 2026
- Inequity of access to innovative oncology medicines for patients in Ireland
- Alexion - Cork office launch event
Vape Business Ireland · 2 returns Health · Finance
- Regulation of vaping
- RVI pre-budget submission
Alliance for Insurance Reform Banking and Financial Institutions
- Seeking policy decisions that will reduce the cost of insurance for our members and Irish society as a whole to affordable levels and keep it that way.
mytaxi network Ireland (trading as FREE NOW) Taxation
- Correspondence concerning the potential risks of undisclosed VAT liabilities within the taxi industry, and strategies for addressing the application of the reverse-charge mechanism in Ireland
Stratagem (NI) Ltd Health
- Provision of audiology services and eye care services
Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association Health
- Future Framework Agreement - issues concerning timely reimbursement of medicines in Ireland.
Novartis Ireland Limited Health
- Rare Disease Ireland invite to Leinster House
Irish Cancer Society · 2 returns Health · Budgetary matters
- Migrant communities access to healthcare
- Pre-Budget Submission priorities
Movember Health
- Liaison on the upcoming launch of the Real Face of Men's Health report which makes clear the need for the government to progress the National Men's Health Action plan, with a range of recommendations on priority areas including the need for cross government support statement and clarity on initial funding for the action plan.
Irish Funds Industry Association CLG Economic Development and Industry
- Domestic & EU Legislative Agenda
Pfizer · 3 returns Health · Trade
- Expansion of the National Immunisation Programme to include RSV protection for infants and older adults
- Raise concern about the impact of potential tariffs and related geo-political issues related to the pharmaceutical industry and pricing of medicines globally
- Ireland's medicine reimbursement system and funding for access to new medicines and vaccines
Ibec Economic Development and Industry
- Aviation leasing industry in Ireland
Respond Housing
- Construction specific funding model for AHBs.A cost recovery model to address legacy issues with CAS/CLSS units.Funding of communal facilities and staffing for large schemes.Expanding access to Cost Rental Homes.CREL funding model should have in-built flexibility.Funding for deep retroftting of S and A housing and fuel poverty.A multidisciplinary approach to address family homelessness.Improve outcomes in Early Learning and School Aged Care
LGBT Support and Advocacy Network Ireland CLG Health
- Joint LGBTQ+ Parenting Alliance Submission to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health regarding the Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of the Health (Assisted Human Reproduction) Amendment Bill 2025
Royal College of Physicians of Ireland Health
- Engagement with Oireachtas members on health policy issues
Danone Ireland Health
- Meeting with Deputy Colm Burke to discuss Danone’s business in Ireland, its priorities regarding healthy nutrition and the role of medical nutrition in delivering positive health outcomes for patients and significant benefits to the healthcare system.
Chime Health
- To advocate for a National Hearing Care Plan
Irish Hotels Federation Tourism
- Seeking Government measures to support the continued recovery of Ireland's tourism and hospitality industry
Family Carers Ireland · 2 returns Community
- Programme for government- to advance carers issues within the Dáil
- FCI Pre- Budget Submissions 2026
Macra na Feirme Agriculture
- Macra's prebudget document launch and lobby day
Rare Diseases Ireland · 2 returns Health
- Seeking to highlight rare diseases during Ireland's EU Presidency in 2026 with an official event during the presidency
- Request to prioritise rare diseases for discussion at Health Committee meetings
Lir Communications Ltd Education and Training
- Letter requesting a meeting to highlight Explorium’s positive role in science education for children and young people and its potential as a national resource.
Irish Medical Organisation Health
- Mental Health Bill
Vulcan Consulting Limited · 3 returns Health
- Strategic Operations in Ireland & Healthcare Priorities
- Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Awareness
- Rare Disease Policy in Ireland

Eoghan Kenny — Labour Party 1 vote · 10 questions · 27 new lobbying returns

Questions asked 10 total

Education 4 questions
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of students in Galway city, due to enter special classes in second level this year, who had not secured places by the end of the 2024-2025 school year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49542/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of students in Galway city, due to enter mainstream classes in second level this year, who had not secured places by the end of the 2024-2025 school year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49543/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Youth the actions that have been taken by her Department, and its agencies, to support students who have not yet secured a school place for the year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49544/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Youth the steps that have been taken to improve the school admission system; if she is aware of groups of parents forming to call for improvements to be made to the system; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49545/25]
Transport 2 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Transport the reason for ending the TFI Bike Scheme in Cork city; the plans he has to replace the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47842/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the Mallow relief road and the Government's commitment to the project as of September 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48179/25]
Health 1 question
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Health if she will examine the case of a person (details supplied); and if an appointment will be expedited. [48167/25]
Further and Higher Education 1 question
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the involvement he or his Department had in reaching a settlement with the former director of an agency (details supplied); the cost to the Exchequer, inclusive of the settlement, legal fees and other costs associated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48530/25]
Foreign 1 question
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if Ireland will support and advocate for drafting of the proposed new optional protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (details supplied); if he will express support for the new optional protocol before the United Nations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49549/25]
Children 1 question
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if Ireland will support and advocate for drafting of the proposed new optional protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (details supplied); if he will express support for the new optional protocol before the United Nations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49551/25]

New lobbying 27 returns

Rosetta Care Ltd Health
- Increased funding supports to independent nursing home operators, legislative changes review, budget submission
Cork Chamber Economic Development and Industry
- A letter calling on Cork TDs to support Cork Chamber's priorities in the National Development Plan
The Irish Farmers' Association - IFA · 5 returns Agriculture · EU Affairs
- Nitrates Derogation - IFA Spring Lobbying 2025
- ACRES - IFA Spring Lobbying 2025
- Bovine TB - Spring Lobbying 2025
- GAEC-2 - IFA Spring Lobbying 2025
- Mercosur Trade Deal
Irish Universities Association Education and Training
- IUA Pre Budget 2026 Submission
National Forum of Family Resource Centres CLG Children and Youth Affairs
- The Family Resource Centre National Forum held a political engagement event on the 28th of May in Dublin.
Triple P UK Ltd Children and Youth Affairs
- Public policy concerning parenting and families in Ireland
National Disability Services Association Justice and Equality
- NDSA Pre-Budget 2026 Submission
Fórsa trade union Education and Training
- Letter and emails seeking support for Fórsa's campaign seeking public sector pension status for school secretaries and caretakers. There was also a briefing held for Oireachtas members in the Oireachtas AV room.
Age & Opportunity Justice and Equality
- Pre-budget Submission (for 2026 Budget)
CPSMA Budgetary matters
- Increase in capitation and funding for primary mangagement bodies
National Gallery of Ireland Arts
- Invitation to Picasso exhibition opening
Neurological Alliance of Ireland Health
- Call for Investment in Budget 2026 to begin to implement the commitments to the development of neurorehabilitation services within the current Programme for Government
Drury Health
- Request for meetings with DPOs to discuss the role of insourcing in reducing waiting lists in the health service
National Youth Council of Ireland Children and Youth Affairs
- Youth work funding and Budget 2026
AONTAS Budgetary matters
- Pre-budget submission for Budget 2026
Cork Simon Community Housing
- Invite to visit homeless services
Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy - IACP Health
- IACP Pre-Budget Submission 2026
Liquid Gas Ireland Energy and Natural Resources
- Outreach to relevant stakeholders to introduce Liquid Gas Ireland’s newly appointed Senior Director for Government Affairs and Policy, Alan Farrell, and highlight LGI’s policy priorities for rural consumers and businesses.
Apple Distribution International Ltd. Education and Training
- Introductory meeting and discussion on digital classrooms in the Irish education system.
Family Carers Ireland Community
- FCI Pre- Budget Submissions 2026
Lir Communications Ltd Education and Training
- Letter requesting a meeting to highlight Explorium’s positive role in science education for children and young people and its potential as a national resource.
Rehab Group Budgetary matters
- Meeting to outline key priorities for Budget 2026 of National Disability Services Association (NDSA)
Cormac McKay Transport
- Annual National Household Travel Survey

Ken O'Flynn — Independent Ireland 0 votes · 242 questions · 40 new lobbying returns

Questions asked 242 total

Health 53 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the total over expenditure on capital health projects in 2023-2025; the updated timeframes and costs for Cork University Hospital, the Mercy University Hospital, and St. Stephen's Hospital, Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47778/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if HSE services were involved with the child concerned in the Donabate case; if there was communication with Tusla regarding the child's welfare; and if she will provide details of any inter-agency engagement. [47993/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the daily 8am trolley counts for Cork University Hospital for each day of July–September 2025; the number of single-room isolation beds available and occupied each day in the emergency department and admission areas; the number of suspected or confirmed respiratory-virus patients cohorted in non-isolation areas; and the actions taken since 1 August 2025 to reduce trolley numbers at Cork University Hospital, with the outcomes referencing HSE trolley GAR and INMO datasets. [48107/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if she is confident in the quality and safety of the services provided to the general public at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48276/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if she is satisfied that all doctors currently employed at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, are fully registered, up-to-date with their professional requirements, and compliant with standards set by the Irish Medical Council; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48277/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if her Department has received complaints concerning the professional conduct or service delivery at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, in the past five years; and if so, the number of complaints, their nature, and the status of ongoing reviews or investigations. [48278/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health to provide the most recent estimates, of the prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension and high cholesterol among adults over 65, by age cohort; if she accepts the findings of the report (details supplied) which indicates rates of 36% and 45% respectively; and the measures being taken to address this “critical unmet need.” [48352/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if she has considered establishing a national cardiovascular and metabolic screening programme for older adults, with particular emphasis on hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol, in light of evidence of widespread undiagnosed illness. [48353/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the current ratio of consultant geriatricians to population over 70; how this compares to international best practice; and what expansion of geriatric medicine is planned in view of the doubling of Ireland’s older population over the next 25 years. [48354/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the extent to which her Department has considered a formal role for community pharmacists in screening, monitoring, and referral of older adults with chronic conditions, as recommended by a report (details supplied); and if any pilot schemes have been evaluated. [48355/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the number of older adults hospitalised due to falls and fractures in each of the past five years; the percentage of these patients receiving structured falls-prevention or rehabilitation programmes; and whether her Department accepts the reported rise in fall-related hospitalisations from 24% to 31% as identified in recent research. [48356/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the proportion of older adults reporting chronic pain who currently receive pain management treatment under the public health system; the specialised pain services that exist at HSE level; and whether gaps identified by a report (details supplied) will be addressed in the upcoming service plan. [48357/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the proportion of older adults who present with clinically significant depressive symptoms; the share of those who receive timely access to mental health supports; and whether her Department has set specific targets for improving access to geriatric psychiatry and psychological services. [48358/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if her Department has conducted cost-benefit analyses of proactive screening and early intervention in older adults, compared to the cost burden of late-stage illness such as stroke, cancer, and heart disease, resulting from untreated hypertension and high cholesterol. [48359/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the steps his Department is taking to combat social isolation and loneliness among older adults, in view of recent research highlighting both the health risks and the preventability of loneliness. [48360/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if her Department has assessed the adequacy of existing community support schemes such as the senior alert scheme, meals on wheels and befriending services in view of evidence from a report (details supplied) that social interaction plays a decisive role in maintaining health and independence. [48361/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the extent to which her Department is supporting the expansion of community-based hubs for older people combining social interaction, meals, advice services, and outreach, as a preventive measure against ill-health and loneliness. [48365/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if she will introduce a national policy to ensure that all hospitals, both those directly managed by the Health Service Executive and those receiving public funding, provide free parking to holders of a disabled person’s parking permit (blue badge); the current arrangements across the hospital network regarding parking charges for such permit holders; the estimated annual cost of standardising free parking for all holders of this permit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48843/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if she has considered measures to compensate hospitals for any revenue loss arising from the introduction of free parking for holders of a disabled person’s parking permit (blue badge); if her Department has conducted an assessment of the fiscal impact of such a measure across the health service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48844/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health to provide details of Food Safety Authority of Ireland audits or inspections in recent years concerning Halal certification, including how many were conducted, their findings on traceability and labelling and any actions taken by the authority to bolster transparency in meat labelling. [48855/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health whether there are specific legal provisions governing the importation, certification or labelling of Halal meat products; which regulatory authorities oversee enforcement; and whether further legal clarity or updates are being considered to align consumer expectations with regulatory standards. [48857/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health to provide details of the number of cases which occurred in which a baby was born alive following a termination of pregnancy by gestational age, cause of termination, place of termination, and outcome, in each of the years 2023, 2024 and to date in 2025; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49168/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health to clarify the medical and legal definition of born alive as applied in termination of pregnancy cases; to confirm the point at which a baby is regarded as a living human being entitled to care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49169/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the reporting obligations on medical practitioners when a baby is born alive after a termination of pregnancy; if these cases are reported to the coroner, An Garda Síochána, or Tusla; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49170/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if each of the 12 cases reported in 2022 in which a baby was born alive after a termination of pregnancy complied fully with the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018 and with Ireland’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49171/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the legal rights and protections afforded under Irish law to a child who survives a termination of pregnancy; if there is a statutory obligation to provide full life-sustaining treatment in such cases; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49172/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the medical protocols in place for the care of a baby born alive after a termination of pregnancy; if neonatal resuscitation and intensive care are mandatory in such cases where there is a prospect of survival; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49173/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if hospital ethics committees are required to review and oversee all cases in which a baby is born alive after a termination of pregnancy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49174/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the role of parents in decision-making when a baby is born alive following a termination of pregnancy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49175/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if medical practitioners who provide termination services are required to undertake training in neonatal care and resuscitation to ensure the preservation of life in the event of a live birth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49176/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if her Department will publish an anonymised report on cases of babies born alive after terminations of pregnancy, including lessons learned to ensure that every child born alive is afforded full protection and care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49177/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the counselling services that are required to be provided to women prior to undergoing an abortion; the counselling and after-care services that are provided following an abortion; whether these services are actively offered or only made available on request; and the data available on the number of women who avail of such services. [49346/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health in respect of the 12 cases reported in 2022 in which babies were born alive following abortion, whether the women in those cases were offered counselling before and after the procedures; whether any of those mothers availed of counselling; if her Department has reviewed the adequacy of psychological and emotional supports in these specific cases; and whether any follow-up or welfare checks were carried out to support those women. [49347/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the counselling and psychological supports that are available for medical staff, including doctors, nurses and operating theatre staff, who participate in abortion procedures; whether specific supports were offered to staff involved in the 12 cases in 2022 in which babies were born alive; and the details of how staff are informed about these supports and the level of uptake. [49348/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the national guidelines that govern the provision of counselling in the context of abortion; whether these guidelines have been updated in light of the 12 cases in 2022 in which babies were born alive; and if not, whether the Minister intends to review or amend the guidelines to ensure that adequate psychological support is guaranteed to both patients and staff. [49349/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health whether her Department maintains statistics on counselling sessions offered and availed of in abortion cases; whether anonymised data is published on post-abortion mental health outcomes; whether the provision of counselling in cases of babies born alive will be included in any forthcoming review or report; and if she will make such information publicly available in the interests of transparency. [49350/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the current inpatient bed capacity across Cork University Hospital, Mercy University Hospital and Mallow General Hospital, as of September 2025; the way in which this compares with her Department's population-based target; and the plans in place to expand capacity, including staff recruitment before winter 2025-26. [49413/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the number of persons currently eligible under the expanded general practitioner visit card scheme, announced in August 2023, who have not yet applied; and if she will provide a breakdown, by age group, income band and county. [49419/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the stages in the general practitioner visit card application process at which the greatest number of applicants fail to complete their applications; and the reasons identified for such non-completion, including concerns about financial data disclosure, complexity of the process and time requirements. [49420/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if her Department has examined the use of existing State financial data sources, such as income tax returns, to reduce the requirement for general practitioner visit card applicants to submit detailed financial information manually; and the legal, privacy and logistical implications of such an approach. [49421/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if her Department has considered simplifying or removing non-essential expenses and outgoings in the means test, or increasing the threshold limits, to reduce the rate of disqualification of otherwise eligible general practitioner visit card applicants. [49422/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the financial, staffing and information technology resources that would be required to implement a streamlined general practitioner visit card application process; and whether there is an estimate of the likely benefits in terms of increased uptake and improved health outcomes. [49423/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the number of patients on hospital waiting lists nationwide as of September 2025; how this compares to September 2024; the number of consultant posts that remain vacant across the HSE; and the actions being taken to address these vacancies ahead of the 2025 2026 winter season. [49454/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the number of food-business notifications, by county, which have been lodged with HSE environmental health for school meal providers since 2023; the number of on-site and off-site providers; and the number of inspections and enforcement actions taken in 2023, 2024 and to date in 2025. [49513/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the proportion of providers serving schools that have documented HACCP systems verified by inspection; to publish compliance rates with Reg. 852/2004; and to provide trend data and typical non-conformances found. [49514/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health to publish HSE guidance issued to schools on mandatory written allergen information for non-prepacked foods, including the 2025 update to FSAI guidance note 28; and to detail audit findings on compliance in schools. [49515/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health if her Department has participated in the Department of Social Protection-led review of the 2017 nutrition standards; to provide documented advice on aligning Ireland's standards with US added-sugar limits and sodium targets, and with Nordic models specifying the percentage of daily energy from the school meal; and to provide timelines for adoption. [49516/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health to provide any nutrition surveillance of meals served under the scheme (macro- and micronutrients, free sugars, salt, fibre), including independent laboratory verification since 2023; and if no surveillance was carried out the reason for the absence of monitoring. [49517/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the food-environment controls that exist for vending, tuck shops and fund raising on school premises (sale of HFSS products); the means by which they are enforced; and to provide the legal basis and inspection data since 2023. [49518/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health to publish HSE advice on minimum seated eating time needed for children to consume a hot meal safely; the communication of this to schools; and to provide any risk assessments regarding rushed eating and choking risk in infants classes. [49519/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health to detail the cross-departmental governance for safeguarding pupils with serious allergies consuming externally prepared meals, including traceability of ingredient allergen information along the supply chain and recall procedures. [49520/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the HSE estimates of the health impact (BMI, anaemia, dental caries, attendance) of high-sugar options in school meals; and whether you have recommended added-sugar caps aligned to the USDA final rule. [49521/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health whether her Department supports legislating for statutory school-meal nutrition standards and inspection powers; and if not, to provide the evidence base. [49522/25]
Social 40 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection to confirm the project's public spending code stage gates and sanctioning approvals, including any value-for-money assessments comparing in-house build versus managed service; and to publish the value-for-money report. [48749/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection if he accepts the ESRI’s finding that one in five Irish children are living in poverty once housing costs are accounted for; and if so, the specific measures he intends to take to address this situation. [48345/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will examine the proposal from ESRI researchers for a second-tier, targeted child benefit, to better protect children in low-income households. [48346/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the means by which he intends to meet the Government’s child poverty reduction targets, given the ESRI’s conclusion that there has been “no real progress” in this area since the financial crisis. [48347/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of recipients of the living alone increase; if the rate of payment has been reviewed to reflect the rising costs of utilities, housing, and healthcare; and whether his Department will commit to an indexed approach to maintain real value for older recipients. [48362/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection if his Department has undertaken analysis on the way in which the projected doubling of the older population over the next 25 years will impact demand for social protection supports; and if so, whether long-term funding models have been identified. [48363/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection if his Department is collaborating with the HSE and voluntary organisations such as an organisation (details supplied) in developing integrated policies that address both the financial and social needs of older adults, particularly those at risk of isolation. [48364/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection if his Department has considered targeted supports for carers of older people, in recognition that early intervention and consistent community presence will reduce the burden on both the health and social protection systems. [48366/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection given the shift toward permanent, targeted measures in Budget 2026, the provisions that will be specifically allocated to tackle child poverty and housing instability in Cork city, including Blarney, Mallow and Glanmire. [48377/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the specific reforms being proposed or considered to introduce a second-tier child benefit, as recommended in the ESRI report of 9 September 2025 on child poverty. [48416/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the way in which current child poverty reduction targets are being aligned with housing-adjusted poverty measures; and the steps being taken to address the persistence of child poverty rates at recession-era levels when housing costs are taken into account. [48417/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection if additional supports, such as an enhanced qualified child allowance, targeted housing subsidies, or expanded childcare supports, are planned for households in or near poverty particularly affected by housing costs; and the timeline and funding plan for such measures. [48418/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the indicators and timelines being used to measure progress against the reduction of housing-cost-adjusted child poverty rates; and when her Department will next report such progress to the Houses of the Oireachtas. [48420/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the final contract value, term, and reference number for the managed service contract awarded to a company (details supplied) for the My Future Fund auto-enrolment scheme; the names of all bidders and the evaluation weighting applied; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48582/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection to publish the contract, KPI schedule, service-credit regime, and termination/step-in clauses for the My Future Fund administration contract, subject to necessary redactions; and to outline the independent assurance in place before go-live. [48583/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection to confirm the data-hosting location(s) for My Future Fund; if all personal data will remain within the EEA; the list of approved sub-processors and audit rights; and the schedule for publishing the data protection impact assessment summary. [48584/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of staff (details supplied) working in Letterkenny and Dublin; the roles they perform; and the way his Department is ensuring knowledge transfer and State control over critical functions. [48585/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the revised timeline to contributions from 1 January 2026, key readiness milestones, results of end-to-end testing, and contingency plans if payroll integration or employer onboarding falls behind. [48586/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the way in which his Department has assessed vendor legal and reputational risk in light of US whistleblower litigation against a company (details supplied); and if any contractual safeguards address adverse findings by foreign courts or regulators. [48587/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the way in which the automatic enrolment retirement savings system supervision model addresses concerns raised by the Department of Finance in 2024 regarding forward-looking, risk-based supervision by the Pensions Authority. [48588/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection to quantify the budgeted and actual spend to date on the My Future Fund, by line item (details supplied); and the cost impacts from the 2025 reschedule to 2026. [48589/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the cybersecurity standards required of the contractor for example, ISO 27001, SOC 2, the cadence of independent security audits; and the incident-response and breach notification timelines agreed with the Data Protection Commission. [48590/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection if participant data will be used solely for administering My Future Fund and not for marketing or unrelated analytics by any contractor or sub-processor; and the way in which this is enforced contractually. [48591/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will consider equalising jobseeker’s payments for persons under 25 with those over 25, in light of recent polling showing that three in five young adults are considering emigration due to the cost-of-living crisis. [48781/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason social welfare appeal decisions are taking up to 18 months in some cases; the number of applicants currently awaiting a decision; and the interim supports available to those left without income while awaiting an appeal outcome. [48785/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the average processing time for social welfare appeals in 2023 and 2024, in weeks, by scheme; and the way in which these compare with his Department’s stated service standards. [48787/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the measures being taken to strengthen the independence and transparency of the social welfare appeals office; if the recommendations made by an organisation (details supplied) regarding structural reform have been considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48788/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection if improvements are planned to reduce delays in transferring files and in decision-making; the status of plans to digitise the appeals process; and if priority processing will be introduced for urgent or hardship cases. [48789/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the provisions in place to ensure that appellants have access to legal or advocacy support during social welfare appeals; if he will consider introducing free legal aid for complex appeals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48790/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the role his Department plays in setting, monitoring, and enforcing nutritional standards for food served on school premises, including canteens and vending machines; and to provide copies of any circulars, compliance audits, and sanctions issued since 2020. [49463/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection to list every post-primary school that applied for participation in the hot school meals or school meals scheme and that was refused or deemed ineligible since 2022, with reasons; and to explain the evidence base for excluding post-primary pupils when England, Finland and the United States apply standards or programmes across older cohorts. [49464/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection to provide the full text of any memorandum of understanding or governance agreement with the Department of Social Protection and the HSE regarding school-meal delivery on school premises, including responsibilities for safeguarding, allergens, and food-safety inspections; and if none exists, the reason for the governance gap. [49465/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the percentage of pupils regularly present who do not collect a school meal when it is available, by school and term since 2023; the Department’s plan to address stigma, timing and menu acceptability barriers; and to cite any pilots to improve uptake. [49467/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection to confirm whether he will bring forward primary legislation establishing a pupil entitlement to a nutritious school meal with statutory nutrition standards and inspection powers, as per Finland’s legal model and England’s standards; and if not, set out the contrary evidence. [49468/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the procurement model used by schools and patron bodies for meal provision, including the use of frameworks, lot sizes, SME access, and any late rule changes in 2025 that contributed to roll out delays; and to publish the corresponding risk register entries. [49469/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection to provide data on food waste from school meals (kg/week per school), for the years 2023 to 2025; and any menu reformulation or packaging trials to reduce waste. [49470/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the way in which he will ensure equity for pupils with special diets (allergies, coeliac disease, cultural-religious requirements), including compulsory written allergen information availability on site; and the dates of the last environmental health inspections per school. [49471/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will consider amending the supplementary welfare allowance policy to allow referrals from An Garda Síochána to be accepted for fast-tracking emergency financial supports, including rent supplement, for victims of domestic violence; if he will review the current policy excluding Garda referrals in light of evidence that many victims contact Gardaí first; and the steps his will take to ensure all victims can access timely and lifesaving financial assistance. [49437/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the projections made regarding the sustainability of the State pension system given demographic trends as of September 2025; the funding gap projected over the next decade; and the reforms or measures being considered to ensure long-term security for current and future pensioners. [49455/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Social Protection the implementation status and timeline of State auto-enrolment, in light of CCPC research indicating that 26 percent of Irish adults have no retirement plan; to provide year-on-year trend data since 2023; and to outline funded measures for financial literacy and default fund protections to reduce under-saving risk. [49495/25]
Housing 32 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he is aware that people registering for a postal vote due to disability or illness are required to have their application form certified by a doctor, and that many doctors charge a fee for this; if he accepts that this fee acts as a barrier to people with disabilities or long-term illnesses exercising their right to vote; and if he will consider measures to remove this barrier, such as providing the certification service free of charge or exploring alternative verification methods. [49728/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department has assessed the impact of bulk-purchasing by State housing agencies on market prices for new homes; the number of homes purchased directly from developers by approved housing bodies and local authorities in each of the past five years; and whether measures are being considered to ensure first-time buyers are not crowded out of the market. [47947/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to detail the proportion of newly built housing units in 2024 and 2025 that were purchased by State agencies or approved housing bodies, as opposed to being made available for private sale; and his views on the implications for first-time buyers. [47948/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to publish the average price paid per unit by approved housing bodies and local authorities when purchasing newly built homes; the way in which this compares to the average private market purchase price; and if value-for-money assessments are being undertaken before these acquisitions are approved. [47949/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department has updated its estimate of the annual number of new homes required to meet demographic demand and household formation, given CSO projections and the current shortfall in supply; and the measures being introduced to close this gap. [47950/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the current percentage of Ireland’s total housing stock that is in public, affordable, or cooperative housing; how this compares with European peers such as Austria, Denmark, and the Netherlands; and whether he intends to adopt best practice models to expand non-market housing options. [47951/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the steps being taken to streamline zoning and planning approval for housing projects; whether delays are contributing to inflated costs and restricted supply; and if consideration will be given to legislative changes to accelerate delivery. [47952/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if her Department has conducted research into the impact of housing unaffordability on young adults and families, including rates of emigration, household formation delay, and reduced fertility rates; and if she will commission an interdepartmental report on the social consequences of ongoing unaffordability. [47954/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage in light of the second confirmed Asian hornet nest in Cobh, the immediate and medium-term measures being funded for surveillance and nest eradication in Cork Harbour and adjacent districts; the guidance being issued to beekeepers and the public; and the KPI targets for the detection-to-destruction time and survey coverage that will apply in Q4 2025. [48108/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will review the help-to-buy and first home schemes in view of reports that many first-time buyers cannot afford new homes in developments such as (details supplied) even when availing of these supports; and if she will outline whether changes are planned to scheme thresholds or eligibility to address affordability challenges in new housing estates.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48133/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will publish the number of hectares newly zoned for residential use following enactment of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2025; the Department’s projected number of housing units unlocked in Cork City and County for 2025 to 2027 as a result of these changes; and the minimum apartment floor area, storage and private open space standards now applicable after the July 2025 amendments to Section 28 guidelines, by local authority. [48139/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the means by which his Department is addressing the role of high housing costs in driving child poverty; and whether he accepts that housing affordability is now a primary driver of deprivation among families. [48348/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the assessment that has been made of the impact of rent inflation on child poverty; and the policies that are under consideration to alleviate this. [48349/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether Cork City Council and Cork County Council will receive proportionate infrastructure funding to deliver on regional housing targets, given the concentration of new housing spend in Dublin. [48388/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will commission an assessment of an area (details supplied), with a view to placing it on Ireland’s tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage Site nomination, in recognition of its unique natural, cultural and historical significance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48602/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department has engaged with Cork City Council regarding the motion previously passed by the Council requesting an area (details supplied) be advanced for UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48603/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department has carried out, or will carry out, an ecological survey of an area (details supplied) in view of its distinctive biodiversity, flora and fauna; and if the findings will be used to support heritage recognition, including possible UNESCO designation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48605/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department has undertaken any analysis of the impact of the housing crisis on youth emigration, given that 94% of students cite accommodation costs as a major burden; and to outline measures being taken to ensure affordability for those under 25. [48782/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage in view of the proposed stricter thresholds on legal challenges to planning decisions, the measures his Department will put in place to ensure that communities in Cork city, Glanmire, Mallow and Blarney have adequate statutory avenues to participate in planning, and that environmental and heritage concerns are properly safeguarded. [48862/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the timeline for the Cork Events Centre project, including the expected dates for the publication of the prior information notice, the call for expressions of interest, the formal tender, and the anticipated award of contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49192/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the current estimated cost of the Cork Events Centre project, including construction, consultancy, and procurement phases; the amount expended to date; the measures in place to prevent further cost overruns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49193/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the membership and remit of the newly established Cork Events Centre Project Development Board; the frequency of its meetings; the way in which responsibility is allocated between the local authority, Government Departments, and external consultants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49194/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the measures being taken to ensure full compliance with European Union procurement law and State aid rules in respect of the Cork Events Centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49195/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the proposed operator model for the Cork Events Centre, whether public, private, or hybrid; the criteria being applied in the procurement of an operator; the means by which the public interest will be safeguarded in the contractual arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49196/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the demand and market analysis carried out to determine the scale, design, and financial sustainability of the Cork Events Centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49197/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the arrangements in place for public reporting and parliamentary oversight of the Cork Events Centre project during its procurement and delivery phases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49198/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if every local authority has adopted and published an operational policy for the room for a student local authority tenancies scheme, which permits social housing tenants to let a room to a third-level student; the date this scheme commenced nationally; the guidance or circulars issued to local authorities; the number of applications received, approvals granted, refusals issued, the average processing time since commencement for each local authority including Cork City Council and Cork County Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49334/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if income earned under the room for a student local authority tenancies scheme is treated as reckonable for local authority differential rent purposes; the standard approach that is required of local authorities in assessing such income; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49336/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will review the current planning policies requiring a minimum period of residence, often seven years, before an applicant can seek permission to build a dwelling in a rural area; if there are circumstances in which applicants who have resided in the area for less than seven years, such as five years, may be considered; and the steps he is taking to ensure that planning policies balance local housing needs with access to building opportunities for long-term residents. [49440/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the specific steps in the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity which will address planning delays, approval times and regulatory burdens for housing developers in Cork suburbs e.g. Glanmire, Blarney, Bishopstown; if he will publish target timelines for planning decisions in those areas; and if resources will be allocated to local authorities to meet those targets. [49504/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the funding which has been allocated or ring-fenced to support necessary infrastructure that is, roads, drainage, schools, healthcare, broadband in regard to recently approved major housing schemes in north Cork and Cork city suburbs; the timelines for availability of those supports; and the monitoring which exists to ensure developments do not proceed ahead of basic services being in place. [49507/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of Government annual housing targets which have been met as of September 2025 in each local authority to date; the councils that are on track and those which are falling behind; and the interventions planned to address under-performance ahead of year-end. [49510/25]
Public Expenditure 18 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if the Office of Government Procurement will mandate enhanced pre-award checks for high-risk social care contracts (details supplied); if a clawback protocol for safeguarding breaches will be standardised across contracting authorities; and the timeframes for policy issuance. [48152/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if the new infrastructure delivery unit will publish regional breakdowns of NDP expenditure and project delivery status, specifically in respect of Cork; and if he will make such reporting publicly available on a quarterly basis. [48389/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if his Department has assessed the risk of over-centralisation of NDP investment in Dublin; and whether safeguards have been introduced to ensure balanced development across all three regions of Ireland. [48390/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he accepts the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council’s assessment that the credibility of the Budget process is being undermined by the concealment of spending overruns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48393/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the measures being taken to ensure that spending forecasts for Budget 2026 reflect realism and transparency, in line with IFAC recommendations. [48394/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation to detail the total cost of expenditure overruns, by Department in 2025 to date; and the corrective actions, if any, being implemented to manage these overruns. [48395/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will commit to publishing quarterly reports on departmental spending variances in order to prevent the concealment of overruns and to restore public trust in the budgetary process. [48396/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he accepts the warning of the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council that persistent overspending without disclosure risks overheating the economy and undermining fiscal stability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48397/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the status of the Blackpool flood relief scheme; the reason no works have commenced to date despite plans being finalised; and the timeframe for the commencement and completion of each phase. [48703/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the interim or temporary protective measures the OPW will put in place for households along the Commons Road, Blackpool, Cork particularly at a location (details supplied) to safeguard against flooding in winter 2025. [48704/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if dredging of the river, construction of temporary embankments, or other short-term works will be considered by the OPW to reduce the immediate risk of flooding to properties in Blackpool while awaiting full delivery of the permanent scheme. [48705/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if the State has conducted supplier due diligence on the major litigation regulatory exposure of a company (details supplied); and the way in which such risks are reflected in the risk register and contingency planning. [48750/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation in view of the Fiscal Advisory Council’s report that current spending is exceeding targets, if he will publish sector-by-sector projections for 2026 and 2027, to demonstrate the government’s capacity to maintain critical services without undermining fiscal stability. [48863/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will confirm whether any public funds, including infrastructure allocations under the national development plan, have been committed to projects at Murphy’s Rock, Cork, a site subject to an unresolved European Union enforcement order requiring remediation of illegal dumping; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49240/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will ensure that future allocations of public funds or infrastructure supports will be conditional on compliance with outstanding European Union enforcement orders, including the case of Murphy’s Rock, Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49244/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation to provide a full breakdown, by Department, of current expenditure overruns to date in 2025, including voted expenditure; and how these figures compare with the allocations approved in Budget 2025. [49382/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the approvals that are required before any severance or settlement is paid by the Dublin Airport Authority to a departing executive; to publish the applicable circulars and caps that would apply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49432/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation in view of the September 2025 warnings from the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council about Government overspending relative to agreed targets, the immediate measures being taken to contain expenditure within sustainable levels. [49509/25]
Transport 17 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport whether he has considered the establishment of a rail link between Youghal and Midleton in east Cork; if any feasibility studies or assessments have been conducted; if so, the estimated costs and timelines; whether there are plans to progress this project to provide a reliable public transport option for residents of east Cork (details supplied); and the measures his Department is taking to ensure east Cork is not left underserviced in terms of public transport infrastructure (details supplied). [48303/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport the projected timeline for commencement and completion of the proposed light rail system for Cork city; and if the project is guaranteed funding under the National Development Plan allocations 2026–2035. [48384/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport the current status of the BusConnects Cork programme, including consultation feedback, revised routing, and delivery milestones; and to set out the budget ring-fenced for the scheme in 2026–2030. [48385/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport if he will commit to delivering the full upgrade of the Cork to Limerick N20 as a motorway by 2030, given its designation as a strategic priority in Project Ireland 2040. [48386/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport the funding commitments which have been secured in the current EU budget negotiation for transport infrastructure improvements in Cork including port expansion, connectivity and rural-island link roads, and the way in which the Government will ensure that Cork's transport and connectivity projects are not underfunded in comparison with central and eastern European “island” regions. [49216/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport the number of operational public electric vehicle charging points in Cork city suburbs, including Glanmire, Blarney and Mallow, as of September 2025; the expansion scheduled over the next 24-months; and if he will commit to publishing a detailed timeline for installation to match the rapid growth in electric vehicle registrations in Cork. [49411/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport further to recent media reports of tensions between the board of the Dublin Airport Authority and its chief executive, to set out all engagements his Department has had with the chair and the board since 1 June 2025, including dates, attendees and subjects discussed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49424/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport if a mediator has been appointed in relation to the dispute at the Dublin Airport Authority; the process by which the mediator was selected; the cost met to date by the company for mediation and associated legal services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49425/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport whether any proposed exit or settlement package for the current chief executive of the Dublin Airport Authority will comply in full with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies and with Government guidance on severance; to outline the approval pathway, including any role of NewERA and the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49426/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport to detail the communications between his Department and the Dublin Airport Authority regarding leadership continuity and contingency planning for airport operations during the peak travel period and the winter season, including designation of an interim chief executive if required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49427/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport the total legal and professional fees incurred by the Dublin Airport Authority in 2024 and year-to-date 2025, disaggregated by matter, including mediation, board advisory services and litigation related to the thirty-two million annual passenger cap; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49428/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport to publish the dates of all board evaluations of the Dublin Airport Authority since 2023, any external governance reviews commissioned and the actions arising from those reviews; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49429/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has received any protected disclosures or significant complaints concerning the governance or culture of the Dublin Airport Authority since 2023; the way in which these were handled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49430/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport the process and timeline for the appointment of a permanent chief executive of the Dublin Airport Authority, including selection criteria, remuneration range within Government pay policy and expected date for advertisement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49431/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport to list any formal directions or consents issued by his Department to the Dublin Airport Authority in 2024 and 2025 under to the State Airports Act 2004 or other governing instruments, including the reasons for each decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49433/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport when construction will commence and be completed on the Mallow relief road; the current status of planning, funding and delivery; and the way in which the Government will ensure that the approved 469 home development (details supplied) is supported by necessary road infrastructure, public transport and active travel links. [49500/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport the current capacity and frequency of public transport services bus and rail between Cork City and commuter satellite towns such as Mallow, Blarney and Glanmire; the investment scheduled over the next two years to expand frequency, accessibility, and active travel connections; and the Government’s plan to ensure congestion is mitigated during periods of growth. [49505/25]
Children 15 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if she accepts the Ombudsman for Children's finding that the National Review Panel is "not a powerful vehicle" and "disrespectful to families" in its handling of cases such as the disappearance of a child in Donabate now presumed dead; and if she will commit to establishing a fully independent statutory body with powers to investigate, publish, and enforce recommendations in serious child protection cases. [47976/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if she will review the statutory basis, powers, and independence of the National Review Panel, in light of the Ombudsman for Children’s statement that it is “not a powerful vehicle” and “disrespectful to families”; and if she will consider reforms to allow the publication of reports in full. [47985/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of child welfare and protection cases closed by Tusla due to Covid-19 restrictions between 2020 and 2022; and if she will outline the methodology and timelines for the current “well-being checks” being carried out on those cases. [47986/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of cases reviewed by Tusla’s National Review Panel in each of the past five years; the average time taken to complete such reviews; and the percentage of recommendations implemented. [47987/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if she will consider establishing an independent statutory body, separate from Tusla, with authority to investigate and publish reports on serious child protection failures. [47988/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if she will consider commissioning an independent inquiry into the handling of the Donabate case, given the Ombudsman’s concerns about the adequacy of existing review mechanisms. [47992/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if she will bring forward legislation to establish a statutory independent review mechanism for cases involving the death or suspected death of a child known to Tusla; if she will provide, for each year since 2019, the number of closed social work cases subsequently reopened; and if she will provide the number of Section 12 emergency care orders where the required follow-up timelines were not met. [48137/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if she will set out the Department’s current procedures for data quality assurance of Tusla case management systems; if she will confirm the number of incidents since 2020 in which incorrect or missing data delayed an intervention; and if she will publish the audit schedule for Tusla’s National Child Care Information System for 2025. [48138/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the date Tusla first became aware of fraud convictions regarding persons connected to a service provider (details supplied); whether this information was known prior to contract awards or payment from October 2018 to December 2023; if so, the dates and records of that knowledge; and if not, the reason therefor. [48143/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the payments by Tusla to a service provider (details supplied) from 2018 to 2023, by year, in tabular form; the date Tusla ceased all engagement; and whether a recovery process has been initiated to recoup public monies following the convictions, including the legal basis and quantum sought. [48144/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the full due-diligence checklist applied by Tusla before initial engagement with a service provider (details supplied) including criminal records, national vetting bureau vetting, beneficial ownership checks, CRO directorship checks, and reference verification for directors and key personnel, indicating which checks were completed, the dates, and by whom. [48145/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality to publish Tusla’s internal compliance reviews, audits and investigation reports into a service provider (details supplied); the dates of initiation and completion; and if she will place unredacted or appropriately redacted copies in the Oireachtas Library, stating any statutory ground relied upon for non-disclosure if refused. [48146/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of children placed with a service provider (details supplied) from 2018 to 2023, by year; whether retrospective individual risk assessments were completed for each child once falsified vetting and references were identified; the dates completed; and the number of guardians and guardians ad litem formally notified. [48147/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if any Tusla officials responsible for approving, monitoring or paying a service provider (details supplied) faced disciplinary action, performance management or referral to a regulator; and the actions taken, dates, and outcomes. [48148/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if all special emergency arrangement providers have undergone a post-case audit since April 2023; the number audited and the number found non-compliant; the categories of non-compliance; and the sanctions or contract terminations applied. [48149/25]
Finance 12 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Finance if his Department has considered the introduction of a site value tax or equivalent measures to discourage speculative landholding that withholds serviced land from development; and if he will publish any economic analysis on the potential effects of such a tax on housing affordability. [47953/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Finance his views on the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council’s warning that the €9.4 billion Budget package risks overheating the economy; and the means by which he intends to reconcile these fiscal pressures with the urgent need to reduce child poverty. [48350/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide a breakdown of how much of the projected €8 billion fiscal gap (after excluding excess corporation tax) will be addressed by sustainable, recurring revenue sources rather than temporary windfalls. [48351/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Finance given the IFAC’s warning on Ireland’s fiscal overexposure to volatile corporation tax receipts, the steps being taken to broaden the revenue base and safeguard fiscal stability, in particular to sustain infrastructural investment in Cork. [48379/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Finance to provide a full breakdown, by Department, of current expenditure overruns to date in 2025, including both voted and non-voted expenditure; and how these figures compare with the allocations approved in Budget 2025. [48392/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Finance to detail his Department's reservations in relation to AE supervision cited in 2024, the changes that were sought, which were accepted; and the current oversight model involving the Pensions Authority and Department of Social Protection. [48751/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Finance the share of VAT, PSO levy, and other taxes in Irish household electricity bills; and if he will review taxation policy to ease costs for households. [48837/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Finance if the high electricity prices in Ireland are having a measurable effect on disposable incomes, consumer spending, and inflation compared with the rest of the Eurozone. [48838/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Finance if he will publish corporation tax revenue sensitivity scenarios. [49938/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Finance if ##income earned under the room for a student local authority tenancies scheme qualifies for rent-a-room relief up to fourteen thousand euro per year, subject to the conditions of the Revenue Commissioners; and the exclusions that apply to social housing tenants. [49335/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Finance in view of the September 2025 warnings from the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council about Government overspending relative to agreed targets, the immediate measures being taken to contain expenditure within sustainable levels; and if he will detail the contingency planning in place if corporate tax revenues fall short of expectations in 2025/2026. [49508/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Finance if he will detail the contingency planning in place if corporate tax revenues fall short of expectations in 2025/2026. [50020/25]
Enterprise 12 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if specific investment incentives are being built into the NDP to attract foreign direct investment and indigenous enterprise to Cork, Limerick and the wider southern region in order to support the National Planning Framework objective of balanced regional growth. [48391/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if his Department, through Fáilte Ireland or other agencies, will provide support to Cork City Council and local stakeholders in promoting an area (details supplied) as a site of cultural and natural heritage with potential for UNESCO recognition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48604/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the means by which the State ensures balanced representation on high-level advisory panels with foreign business leaders, including SMEs and Irish enterprises; and the means by which panel advice is tracked to policy outcomes. [48754/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the assessment that has been made of the impact of Ireland’s high household electricity costs on competitiveness, given that household costs often influence wage demands and business operating costs. [48839/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether the high price of electricity is a factor in deterring inward investment or encouraging emigration, particularly in the technology and manufacturing sectors. [48840/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether his Department or affiliated consumer protection bodies have received representations from retail associations, butcher networks or consumer groups regarding the labelling of Halal-certified meat; the responses or guidelines that have been provided; and the steps planned to ensure all retail stakeholders can offer clarity to customers. [48856/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment following recent Cork Chamber survey findings that 41% of businesses face significant challenges in international trade, the supports being provided specifically to SMEs in Cork city and county; the number of firms in Cork that have availed of Enterprise Ireland export assistance schemes in 2024-2025; and the additional measures are planned for 2026 to diversify markets and reduce over-dependence on UK trade. [49415/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if his Department monitors the prevalence of shrinkflation in the Irish market; if there is a mechanism to publish a list of products affected; and the protections in place to ensure transparency for consumers. [49457/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has been tasked with monitoring shrinkflation trends; if not, if he will mandate the CCPC to investigate and publish annual reporting on the impact of shrinkflation on household grocery bills; and if the Government will consider compulsory labelling to highlight reduced product sizes. [49458/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if Ireland has raised the issue of shrinkflation at EU level; if the Commission is considering EU-wide labelling or transparency measures; and if Ireland will support the introduction of mandatory disclosure when product size, weight, or content is reduced without a corresponding price reduction. [49459/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment further to Denmark's estimate that pending EU regulations could impose €124.2billion in annual compliance costs EU-wide, to set out the Department's assessment of the projected annual regulatory compliance costs for Irish SMEs from files currently in the EU pipeline in 2025 to 2027; the methodology used; and the timeframe to publish sectoral regulatory costings and a national red tape reduction target. [49494/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the specific steps in the Action Plan on Competitiveness & Productivity which will address planning delays, approval times and regulatory burdens for housing developers in Cork suburbs e.g. Glanmire, Blarney, Bishopstown; if he will publish target timelines for planning decisions in those areas; and if resources will be allocated to local authorities to meet those targets. [49503/25]
Climate 9 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the reason Irish households are now paying the highest monthly electricity bills in the European Union, averaging €150 per household in September 2025, compared with €115 in Germany and €38 in Lithuania; and the measures being taken to address this disparity. [48833/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the breakdown of electricity costs in Ireland by generation, transmission, distribution, and taxes/levies; and how these compare with the European Union average. [48834/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the analysis that has been undertaken to assess the impact of renewable energy penetration, grid constraints, and market design on Ireland’s retail electricity prices compared with other EU member states. [48835/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he plans to introduce price cap mechanisms or targeted relief schemes in light of Irish consumers facing the highest electricity bills in Europe. [48836/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he accepts responsibility for the fact that Irish families are now paying the highest electricity bills in Europe; and if he will convene a cross-departmental strategy to reduce household energy costs to the EU average. [48841/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the status of the European Union enforcement order requiring the remediation of illegal dumping at Murphy’s Rock, Cork; the actions taken by the State to comply with this order over the past twenty years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49226/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will set out the compliance obligations on Ireland under European Union environmental law in relation to Murphy’s Rock, Cork, and other similar sites where illegal dumping has occurred; and if he will provide details of the sanctions that could apply in the event of continued non-compliance. [49227/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he has engaged with the European Commission regarding the outstanding remediation of Murphy’s Rock, Cork; the nature of any correspondence between the Commission and the State; and if he will publish this correspondence. [49228/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment in light of recent volatility in European energy markets, the steps been taken as of September 2025 to diversify Ireland's natural gas supply; the progress made on liquified natural gas import options or alternative infrastructure; and the contingency measures in place for winter 2025 2026 to guarantee security of supply. [49456/25]
Justice 9 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he is satisfied that sufficient coordination exists between Gardaí and Tusla in cases of children known to the agency who go missing. [47989/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if any Garda-Tusla joint protocols are in place for missing children cases, and if these protocols were activated in the Donabate case. [47990/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration further to the Irish Prison Service Annual Report 2024, noting 213 prisoners sleeping on cell floors representing a 150–156% annual increase, the daily average population versus design capacity in 2024 and 2025 to date; the implementation timeline, monthly targets, and KPIs for electronic monitoring for bail, post-release supervision, and community sanctions; the projected number of offenders to be diverted from custody in 2025 and 2026; and any planned Cork-region pilot scheme, by facility, in tabular form. [48106/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if she will publish the number of prisoners sleeping on mattresses on cell floors in each prison; the number of bail-eligible prisoners held on remand due to the absence of electronic tagging or community supervision; and the Department’s specific 2025 targets for expanding electronic monitoring, including procurement status, KPIs, and independent evaluation of outcomes, by week since 1 January 2025. [48135/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if she will provide the average and maximum time spent on remand since 2020; the proportion of remand prisoners subsequently convicted of non-custodial offences; and the Department’s current policy on crediting time served on remand towards sentence calculation, by prison. [48136/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of complaints lodged with An Garda Síochána concerning the practices or staff of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda; the number currently under investigation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48279/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if applications for international protection (asylum) have been received from nationals of the United States of America; if so, the grounds cited in such applications; the number of applications received in the past two years; and whether any of these applications have been granted. [48304/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the specific measures, strategies, or initiatives he intends to implement to eliminate violence against women in Ireland; if he will provide details of any funding, resources, or legislative proposals allocated to this issue; and if the timeline and targets for achieving measurable reductions in domestic and gender-based violence across the country. [49417/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the steps he is taking to ensure that all victims of domestic and gender-based violence have access to emergency accommodation, counselling, legal support, and financial assistance; the measures being taken to improve the collection of data on incidents of violence against women; and the way in which this data will inform future policy and resource allocation. [49436/25]
Culture 9 questions
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport to confirm which body will have ultimate decision-making authority to determine what constitutes "mal-information" under the National Counter Disinformation Strategy, and whether that body will be Government-led, quasi-independent or fully independent. [49472/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport how "independence" will be defined in respect of the oversight body enforcing the National Counter Disinformation Strategy, and the safeguards will exist to prevent conflicts of interest where such bodies are reliant on State funding. [49473/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport how he reconciles the decision to proceed with the National Counter Disinformation Strategy given that 83% of respondents to the public consultation opposed the measure; and whether he considers that proceeding regardless undermines democratic legitimacy. [49474/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport to specify whether "mal-information," as defined in the National Counter Disinformation Strategy, includes factually accurate reporting which is politically embarrassing to the Government, its Ministers or State-funded agencies.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49475/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport whether ordinary citizens, whistleblowers or journalists could face sanctions under the strategy for sharing true information that is deemed harmful; and the protections in place for press freedom and public interest reporting. [49476/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport to clarify how "harm" will be defined when assessing "mal-information," and who will have authority to make that assessment. [49477/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport to detail the financial supports promised to "traditional media" as part of the National Counter Disinformation Strategy, and whether this amounts to State subsidies for preferred media outlets while disadvantaging independent or online competitors. [49478/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport whether the National Counter Disinformation Strategy will apply equally to politicians, Government Departments and State-funded NGOs in cases where they disseminate misleading or selective information, and the penalties they can face. [49480/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he accepts that giving the State- or State-funded bodies the power to decide what is "trusted" information risks creating a chilling effect on democratic debate and public scrutiny of Government actions. [49481/25]
Foreign 5 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to publish the terms of reference, membership, selection criteria, and code of conduct for the Ireland-India Economic Advisory Panel; the way in which conflicts of interest are handled for members whose companies hold State contracts; and whether minutes and advice will be published. [48752/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to confirm the scope of the role of a person (details supplied); and what recusal rules apply. [48753/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade in view of the growing concern over external risks to exports, especially through possible US tariffs or EU trade deal disputes, the specific supports he will provide to exporters based in Cork and the Munster region to hedge against trade shocks, including advice, financial aid, or market diversification programmes. [48864/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade in view of recent controversy in the United Kingdom over diplomatic vetting as in a case (details supplied); the current standards and oversight mechanisms in place for Ireland’s nominations and appointments for foreign diplomatic posts, both multilateral and bilateral; and if the Government will consider publishing a review of precedent cases and reforms to ensure transparency and ethical oversight in selection. [49201/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade following the joint UK-US naval transit of the Taiwan Strait and China's subsequent condemnation, if he will outline Ireland's official position on freedom of navigation operations in contested waters; the discussions which have taken place at EU level; and the way in which Ireland intends to balance its trade and diplomatic priorities in future EU/China relations. [49512/25]
Agriculture 5 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the current legal requirements and guidelines concerning the labelling of meat products certified as Halal; to detail his Department’s role in ensuring clear and accurate labelling; and to clarify whether further transparency measures are being considered to assist consumers. [48850/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to provide a current list of slaughterhouses holding Halal certification; to describe the certification and oversight process, including which bodies are involved for example, DHCE or other accredited agencies; and to specify the safeguards that exist to maintain public trust in this certification system. [48851/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine whether the EU-mandated meat establishment code system, for example, "IE 363"and "IE 367", could be reviewed for greater clarity, specifically, to distinguish clearly between codes as origin indicators and any religious certification; and to assess whether additional labelling for example, official Halal logos or QR verification links should be considered. [48852/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine whether his Department has conducted any recent audits related to the traceability and segregation of Halal-certified meat; if he will publish any key findings that inform safe and accurate labelling; and the way these practices intersect with the responsibilities of his Department, particularly in safeguarding consumer information. [48853/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine whether any specific marine-sourced food products, such as fish, carry Halal certification or processing designations; if so, how these are labelled; whether guidelines differ from those applied to meat; and whether his Department intends to introduce uniform labelling standards for all Halal-certified food products across sectors. [48854/25]
Taoiseach 2 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Taoiseach if he will meet with the Ombudsman for Children to discuss his recent remarks and proposals for reform of the child protection review system. [47994/25]
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Taoiseach regarding the Child Poverty and Well-Being Programme Office, the cross-Departmental actions that have been initiated to coordinate responses on income supports, housing, childcare access and educational disadvantage, in order to reduce housing-cost-adjusted child poverty rates; and if he will provide details of progress to date. [48419/25]
Further and Higher Education 2 questions
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will consider the abolition of third-level fees and apprentice contributions as a means to reduce financial pressures on students, in view of recent research showing that 81% of young people are fearful for their future in Ireland. [48783/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the number of student accommodation units available in Cork city, Blarney, Mallow and Glanmire, as of September 2025; the number of units currently under construction or with approved planning; and the projected shortfall against third-level enrolments for the 2025-2026 academic year. [49410/25]
Education 2 questions
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Youth the average daily minutes available for lunch in primary and post-primary schools for 2022 to 2025, with the distribution (median, inter-quartile range), by school; to confirm whether her Department has minimum enforceable standards for time to eat a school meal; and if not, the reason why not, given international evidence that 30 minutes seated eating time is a baseline. [49462/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of schools that lack kitchen facilities to prepare or safely reheat meals on site; and to provide a capital plan with timelines and budget to achieve minimum kitchen capacity standards, by county. [49466/25]

New lobbying 40 returns

Cork Chamber · 10 returns Economic Development and Industry · Children and Youth Affairs · Budgetary matters · Tourism · EU Affairs · Housing · Energy and Natural Resources · Justice and Equality · Transport
- A letter calling on Cork TDs to support Cork Chamber's priorities in the National Development Plan
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
Suas Educational Development Foreign Affairs
- Occupied Territories BIll and Ireland joining the Hague group
Irish Congress of Trade Unions Foreign Affairs
- Occupied Territories Bill
Christian Aid Ireland · 3 returns Foreign Affairs
- Occupied Territories Bill 2018 / Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2025
- Arbitration (Amendment) Act 2025
- Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2025
Home and Community Care Ireland Health
- Engagement with Oireachtas Members on home care issues
Q4PR Economic Development and Industry
- Proposals to help promote the Irish drinks sector
Pro Life Campaign · 2 returns Health · Foreign Affairs
- Asked TDs to submit parliamentary questions on areas related to abortion policy
- Asked TDs to submit parliamentary questions on areas related to abortion policy
Neurological Alliance of Ireland Health
- Call for Investment in Budget 2026 to begin to implement the commitments to the development of neurorehabilitation services within the current Programme for Government
Drury Health
- Request for meetings with DPOs to discuss the role of insourcing in reducing waiting lists in the health service
DOCHAS - THE IRISH ASSOCIATION OF NON- GOVERNMENTAL DEVELOPMENT ORGANISATIONS Foreign Affairs
- Global Aid cuts and Irish ODA Spending
ActionAid Ireland · 3 returns Foreign Affairs
- Submit ActionAid Irelands submission for Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2025.
- Highlighting a brieifing where there will be Testimonies directly from communities in the West Bank
- Spoke at an Oireacthas committee hearing to Highlight the issue of debt and its impact on global development.
GSK Health
- Vaccination policy
JTI Ireland Limited Trade
- Seeking the opportunity to brief public representatives on the extent and impact of illegal trade of tobacco products.
Uplift · 2 returns Trade
- Uplift members were asked to email the Foreign Affairs and Trade Committee about passing the Occupied Territories Bill and asking that all trade in goods and services be banned with the illegally occupied territories.
- Uplift members emailed members of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade and asked them to perform full pre-legislative scrutiny of the changes to the Arbitration Act that would allow the Government to ratify the CETA trade deal. Uplift members also emailed members of the cabinet asking them asking them not to give cabinet approval to amend the Arbitration Act.
UNICEF Ireland Foreign Affairs
- Meetings with public officials on Gaza's humanitarian crisis
Liquid Gas Ireland Energy and Natural Resources
- Outreach to relevant stakeholders to introduce Liquid Gas Ireland’s newly appointed Senior Director for Government Affairs and Policy, Alan Farrell, and highlight LGI’s policy priorities for rural consumers and businesses.
Ibec · 2 returns Food · Economic Development and Industry
- Policy priorities for the Irish drinks sector
- Briefing event on US Tariffs
Irish Hotels Federation Tourism
- Seeking Government measures to support the continued recovery of Ireland's tourism and hospitality industry
Trócaire Foreign Affairs
- Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory
Family Carers Ireland Community
- FCI Pre- Budget Submissions 2026
Free Legal Advice Centres (FLAC) Social Protection
- Bereaved Partner’s Bill 2025
An Taisce The National Trust for Ireland · 2 returns Trade · Foreign Affairs
- Scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Arbitration (Ammendment) Bill 2025 & EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)
- Consideration by the JOC on Foreign Affairs and Trade of the General Scheme of the Arbitration (Amendment) Bill 2025
Concern Worldwide Foreign Affairs
- Concern 2026 Pre-Budget Submission - ODA Helps Build a Better World

Pádraig O'Sullivan — Fianna Fáil 1 vote · 3 questions · 82 new lobbying returns

Questions asked 3 total

Climate 1 question
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will expand the role and powers of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), given the number of offences and breaches committed by bodies operating under the remit of the EPA is increasing, with relatively little or no powers of sanction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49138/25]
Housing 1 question
- 2025-09-17 Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will introduce a policy or guidelines to manage the dramatic increase in the number of applications for large-scale solar farms; how he intends on regulating these developments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49137/25]
Defence 1 question
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the discussions he and his Department have had with the UK Government on defence co-operation; what is likely to be included in an upcoming MOU (Memorandum of Understanding); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49094/25]

New lobbying 82 returns

Cork Chamber · 11 returns Economic Development and Industry · Children and Youth Affairs · Budgetary matters · Tourism · EU Affairs · Housing · Energy and Natural Resources · Justice and Equality · Transport
- A letter calling on Cork TDs to support Cork Chamber's priorities in the National Development Plan
- A meeting between Cork Chamber and Padraig OSullivan TD to discuss business supports
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
- Cork Chamber Delegation to Leinster House
Screen Producers Ireland · 2 returns Arts
- Emails to members of Oireachtas Media Committee
- invitation to members of Oireachtas Media Committee
The Irish Farmers' Association - IFA · 5 returns Agriculture · EU Affairs
- Nitrates Derogation - IFA Spring Lobbying 2025
- ACRES - IFA Spring Lobbying 2025
- Bovine TB - Spring Lobbying 2025
- GAEC-2 - IFA Spring Lobbying 2025
- Mercosur Trade Deal
Irish Association of Social Workers Health
- Opening Statement by the Irish Association of Social Workers (IASW) to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health
National Forum of Family Resource Centres CLG Children and Youth Affairs
- The Family Resource Centre National Forum held a political engagement event on the 28th of May in Dublin.
Chambré Public Affairs LLP Justice and Equality
- Seeking engagement with members of the Oireachtas to discuss the work of the Northern Ireland Assembly All-Party Group on Reducing Harm Related to Gambling, and discuss gambling policy on the island of Ireland
Genseq diagnostics Ltd Health
- Inclusion of commercial laboratory operators in Public Information Notices
Property Owners Association of Ireland Limited (IPOA) Housing
- To outline issues facing landlords in the private rental market.
The Asthma Society of Ireland Health
- Pre-Budget Submission
Ruhama · 2 returns Justice and Equality
- Invite to Ruhama's launch of the Cork/Kerry services and new research - Room for Recovery.
- Invitation to Ruhama's upcoming international conference on combatting pornography, sexual exploitation and sexual violence
Home and Community Care Ireland Health
- Engagement with Oireachtas Members on home care issues
Multiple Sclerosis Ireland · 2 returns Health
- Courtesy communications sent to members
- MS Ireland launched Pre-Budget submission
Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Europe) Limited Health
- Meeting to discuss cystic fibrosis in Ireland and access to medicines for CF
Fórsa trade union Education and Training
- Letter and emails seeking support for Fórsa's campaign seeking public sector pension status for school secretaries and caretakers. There was also a briefing held for Oireachtas members in the Oireachtas AV room.
Age & Opportunity Justice and Equality
- Pre-budget Submission (for 2026 Budget)
Hanover Media Strategy Limited · 2 returns Health · Sports and Recreation
- Meeting request to discuss protection for over 65s in winter flu season
- AV Room Briefing Event to discuss the ongoing policy challenges in the sports sector
National Gallery of Ireland Arts
- Invitation to Picasso exhibition opening
Pender & Associates Ltd · 2 returns Health
- Engagement on dental policy
- Pre-Budget 2026 engagement relating to the needs of oral healthcare
EHF29 LTD Health
- Request for meeting with to discuss the role of insourcing in reducing waiting lists in the health service
Pro Life Campaign Health
- Asked TDs to submit parliamentary questions on areas related to abortion policy
Mental Health Reform · 2 returns Health
- Mental Health Bill 2024 & mental health party political view points
- Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health: MHR submission and Presentation on observations on the Mental Health Bill
Pinnacle Public Affairs Ltd Health
- Cardiovascular Health Policy in Ireland and the EU
Neurological Alliance of Ireland Health
- Call for Investment in Budget 2026 to begin to implement the commitments to the development of neurorehabilitation services within the current Programme for Government
Vintners' Federation of Ireland Trade
- To brief the Deputy on the vital role pubs play in Irish society and economy, to highlight key issues facing the pub trade and to seek their support on specific policy measures.
Galway Centre for Independent Living Health
- Lack of affordable accessible transport for Galway city and county.
National Youth Council of Ireland Health
- National Drugs Strategy
The Wheel Community
- The Wheel hosted launch event for our Pre-Budget Submission 2026. It comprised a panel discussion with speakers from community and voluntary organisations and an overview of The Wheel's priorities for Budget 2026. We invited Ministers, TDs and Senators from the most relevant departments and joint Oireachtas committees and several attended in person.
GSK Health
- Access and reimbursement timelines for medicines
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals (Ireland) DAC · 3 returns Health
- Sharing a Proposal for an Early Access Programme for Innovative Oncology Medicines Budget 2026
- Inequity of access to innovative oncology medicines for patients in Ireland
- Alexion - Cork office launch event
Vape Business Ireland · 2 returns Health · Finance
- Regulation of vaping
- RVI pre-budget submission
Recorded Artists Actors Performers CLG Economic Development and Industry
- Engagement with officials on performers’ rights.
Stratagem (NI) Ltd Health
- Provision of audiology services and eye care services
Novartis Ireland Limited Health
- Rare Disease Ireland invite to Leinster House
Irish Cancer Society · 3 returns Health · Budgetary matters
- Migrant communities access to healthcare
- National Cancer Strategy
- Pre-Budget Submission priorities
Movember Health
- Liaison on the upcoming launch of the Real Face of Men's Health report which makes clear the need for the government to progress the National Men's Health Action plan, with a range of recommendations on priority areas including the need for cross government support statement and clarity on initial funding for the action plan.
Pfizer · 2 returns Health
- Expansion of the National Immunisation Programme to include RSV protection for infants and older adults
- Ireland's medicine reimbursement system and funding for access to new medicines and vaccines
LGBT Support and Advocacy Network Ireland CLG Health
- Joint LGBTQ+ Parenting Alliance Submission to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health regarding the Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of the Health (Assisted Human Reproduction) Amendment Bill 2025
Royal College of Physicians of Ireland Health
- Engagement with Oireachtas members on health policy issues
Chime Health
- To advocate for a National Hearing Care Plan
Irish Hotels Federation Tourism
- Seeking Government measures to support the continued recovery of Ireland's tourism and hospitality industry
Family Carers Ireland Community
- FCI Pre- Budget Submissions 2026
Rockwood Consulting ULC Justice and Equality
- Consultation on firearms matters
Irish Council for Civil Liberties · 2 returns Justice and Equality
- Defamation (Amendment) Bill
- Offences Against the State Act Renewal
DBI Advisory & Services Company Limited By Guarantee · 2 returns Economic Development and Industry
- AI development in Europe
- Balancing growth with digital compliance
Janssen Sciences Ireland UC Health
- Engagement with Oireachtas members on patient access to new medicines
National Infertility Support and Information Group Health
- NISIG emailed members of the Oireachtas our 2026 pre-budget submission. Key asks in the pre-budget submission included funding our NISIG Helpline, a request for a wider and more sufficiently funded public funded IVF scheme. Also, that eligibility and criteria be broad, equitable, inclusive and reflective of those who seek infertility treatment. Also, that donor conception must be ready to roll out in conjunction with the establishment of the new Regulatory Authority
Rare Diseases Ireland · 2 returns Health
- Seeking to highlight rare diseases during Ireland's EU Presidency in 2026 with an official event during the presidency
- Request to prioritise rare diseases for discussion at Health Committee meetings
Affordable Medicines Ireland Company CLG Health
- Representation to the Dept. of Health and public representatives on EU Pharmaceutical package.
Irish Medical Organisation Health
- Mental Health Bill
Vulcan Consulting Limited · 3 returns Health
- Rare Disease Policy
- Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Awareness
- Rare Disease Policy in Ireland
TG4 Communications
- Ag lorg tacaíocht bhreise do TG4

Thomas Gould — Sinn Féin 1 vote · 6 questions · 17 new lobbying returns

Questions asked 6 total

Defence 2 questions
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the actions taken to improve retention in the Defence Forces. [49210/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence for an update on the pay and conditions of members of the Defence Forces. [49209/25]
Climate 2 questions
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the percentage of grant applications to SEAI that are withdrawn. [49212/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the retrofit plan. [49211/25]
Education 2 questions
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is aware that there are children due to attend the east Cork special school still awaiting a start date.; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49497/25]
- 2025-09-18 Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Education and Youth the status of an emergency works application by a school (details supplied). [49538/25]

New lobbying 17 returns

HAIL - Housing Association for Integrated Living Housing
- Invitation to HAIL Annual Report Launch
Cork Chamber Economic Development and Industry
- A letter calling on Cork TDs to support Cork Chamber's priorities in the National Development Plan
Irish Congress of Trade Unions Housing
- Raise the Roof Rallies
ENERGY CLOUD Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) Energy and Natural Resources
- NESC Secretariat Report No. 36 – Energy Transition as an Opportunity to Eliminate Energy Poverty (May 2025)
Society of St. Vincent de Paul Energy and Natural Resources
- Retrofitting Supports for energy Poverty
Fórsa trade union Education and Training
- Letter and emails seeking support for Fórsa's campaign seeking public sector pension status for school secretaries and caretakers. There was also a briefing held for Oireachtas members in the Oireachtas AV room.
Lir Communications Ltd Housing
- Letter to introduce the ILEA and to request a meeting to discuss industry priorities.
Alice Public Relations Housing
- Housing Alliance Campaign: focusing on the role Approved Housing Bodies are playing to help solve the housing crisis and their vision for the future
Neurological Alliance of Ireland Health
- Call for Investment in Budget 2026 to begin to implement the commitments to the development of neurorehabilitation services within the current Programme for Government
Clondalkin Behavioural Initiative t/a Archways Children and Youth Affairs
- Launch of Archays Strategic Plan 2025-2030
Mercy Law Resource Centre CLG Housing
- Letter to Oireachtas Housing Committee
Liquid Gas Ireland Energy and Natural Resources
- Outreach to relevant stakeholders to introduce Liquid Gas Ireland’s newly appointed Senior Director for Government Affairs and Policy, Alan Farrell, and highlight LGI’s policy priorities for rural consumers and businesses.
Ibec Budgetary matters
- PII Pre-Budget 2026 Submission
Respond Housing
- Construction specific funding model for AHBs.A cost recovery model to address legacy issues with CAS/CLSS units.Funding of communal facilities and staffing for large schemes.Expanding access to Cost Rental Homes.CREL funding model should have in-built flexibility.Funding for deep retroftting of S and A housing and fuel poverty.A multidisciplinary approach to address family homelessness.Improve outcomes in Early Learning and School Aged Care
Friends of the Earth · 2 returns Housing
- Input into Housing Committee Work Programme
- Invite to Photo Exhibition on Social Housing Conditions
Family Carers Ireland Community
- FCI Pre- Budget Submissions 2026