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

Taoiseach Enda Kenny apologises to Louise O’Keeffe

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

Buttimer welcomes extension of time for Constitutional Convention

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

Byrne welcomes announcement of over 30 new jobs in the Liberties

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (DTTAS)

The AAIU has published its Final Report into the fatal public transport accident that occurred at Cork Airport in February 2011. The AAIU recognises that this is a difficult time for those families who lost loved ones and the surviving passengers who suffered injuries in this tragic accident. Our deepest sympathies to all concerned.

Harris welcomes inclusion of children with ADHD in Long Term Illness Scheme

Fine Gael Wicklow/East Carlow, Simon Harris, has welcomed the news that the Health Service Executive (HSE) has accepted the recommendations of the Ombudsman, Peter Tyndall, in relation to the inclusion of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the Long Term Illness Scheme.

Pubs and nightclubs must refrain from irresponsible drinks promotions and improve security - Byrne

Fine Gael Dublin South Central TD, Catherine Byrne, has today (Tuesday) called on the pub and nightclub industry to act responsibly in their promotion of events to young people. Deputy Byrne’s call comes in the wake of an incident on Harcourt Street last night which left a number of young people injured.

Announcement of up to 500 jobs at Tyco shows Cork has regained its competitiveness – Buttimer

Fine Gael Cork South Central TD, Jerry Buttimer, has today (Monday) said that the news that Tyco is establishing a business service centre in Cork with the potential creation of 500 jobs is a great boost for the city and proof that is has regained its competitiveness. Tyco is the world’s largest fire protection and security company.

Byrne calls for EPA to review storage of toxic materials in residential areas

Fine Gael Dublin South Central TD, Catherine Byrne, has today (Monday) called on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan TD, to conduct a review of the storage of toxic materials in residential areas following the fire at the Oxigen recycling plant in Ballymount.