I have received notice from the following Senators that they wish to raise the following matters:
Senator Marie Sherlock - The need for the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to make a statement on the actions taken to ensure that fire services in cities across the country undertake pre-fire intelligence surveys of the buildings for which they have responsibility.
Senator Victor Boyhan - The need for the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to make a statement confirming the official polling date for the forthcoming local elections.
Senator Lisa Chambers - The need for the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to make a statement on the one in five vacancy rate in commercial premises in Galway city.
Senators Seán Kyne and Pauline O'Reilly - The need for the Minister for Health to provide an update on the closure of Clifden District Hospital; and the timeline for its reopening.
Senator Annie Hoey - The need for the Minister for Health to roll out a clinical care programme for interstitial lung disease and to allow patients with lung fibrosis to be included in the HSE's respiratory programme.
Senator Rebecca Moynihan - The need for the Minister for Health to make a statement on the additional capacity needed to address the shortage of public health nurses in the Ballyfermot area to ensure child developmental appointments are covered.
Senator Paul Gavan - The need for the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to make a statement on the deposit return scheme and disability access to the reverse vending machines located in stores.
Senator Garret Ahearn - The need for the Minister for Transport to make a statement on the application by Tipperary County Council for the redevelopment of the town centre and public realms; and the reasons for delays in this project.
Senator Robbie Gallagher - The need for the Minister for Finance to ensure that all homeowners have the same rights and protections, including those whose loans are with vulture funds.
Senator Martin Conway - The need for the Minister for Health to provide an update on the provision of funding for new medicines in 2024; and the plans to provide a sustainable funding model and system for 2025 and future years.
Senator Tim Lombard - The need for the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the progress of phase 2 of the N71 Bandon southern relief road extension.
Senator Maria Byrne - The need for the Minister for Justice to provide an update on the appointment of a permanent probate officer in Limerick.
Of the matters raised by the Senators that are suitable for discussion, I have selected those raised by Senators Marie Sherlock, Victor Boyhan, Lisa Chambers, and Seán Kyne and Pauline O'Reilly, who are sharing their time, and they will be taken now.
I regret that I had to rule out of order the matter raised by Senator Maria Byrne on the ground that the Minister has no official responsibility in the matter. The other Senators may give notice on another day of the matters that they wish to raise.
I welcome to the House the Minister of State, Deputy Noonan.