News – The Labour PartyLabour agriculture spokesperson Seán Sherlock has said the drop in LEADER funding announced today is a worrying signal to all in rural Ireland. Questioning the government’s commitment to sustainable development of rural Ireland, Deputy Sherlock said government must think beyond the farm gate when it comes to supporting agricultural communities. Deputy…

News – The Labour PartyCommenting on the news that most pupils at CBS primary school in Wexford stayed out of school today, Deputy Ó Ríordáin said the Department needs to take a common sense approach and listen to the schools affected by outbreaks. Deputy Ó Ríordáin said: “The Department of Education has effectively prevented CBS…

News – The Labour PartyResponding to the Minister of Justice’s failure to answer questions about decriminalising drug user, Labour TD Aodhán Ó Ríordáin said we need to change the culture around drug use in Ireland. Ó Ríordáin, whose campaigning work for a health-based approach to the drugs problem has been recognised in Ireland and abroad,…

News – The Labour PartyLabour health spokesperson Duncan Smith has called for all healthcare workers to receive a booster vaccine. As case numbers continue to rise, Deputy Smith said we have the capacity to provide booster shots to the frontline quickly to protect workers against the virus over the months ahead. Deputy Smith said: “I…

News – The Labour PartySpeaking after the Seanad Special Committee on the Withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the EU, Labour defence spokesperson Mark Wall welcomed the confirmation from the Department of Health that the Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme will be extended into the New Year. Previously due to end in December of this…

News – The Labour Party No Widow’s/Widower’s Pension for surviving partner if one dies. Constitution only recognises the marital family. Laws and social protection payments must be changed to protect cohabiting couples. The Labour Party today published a new Seanad bill that would change the law so that a surviving cohabitant is eligible for a…

News – The Labour PartyLabour housing spokesperson Rebecca Moynihan said the rogue practice of landlords charging ‘pet rent’ must be stamped out. Calling for government support for Labour’s renters’ rights bill, Senator Moynihan said the blanket ban on pets in rental accommodation needs to end. Senator Moynihan said: “Animals play such an important part in…

News – The Labour Party Urgent briefing for opposition needed this week Labour health spokesperson Duncan Smith has called on the HSE to ensure that they are in a position to provide surge capacity at short notice should it be required. Calling for a briefing from the Minister and the HSE for opposition spokespeople, Deputy…