Cathy Bennett TD

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will report on her engagements with members and representative groups of the diaspora community; and if she has discussed driver licence exchange in such engagements.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will consider opening a passport office in the North.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will outline his proposals and associated targets to deliver age friendly housing in counties Cavan and Monaghan.

Asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the total amount contributed to the EU MFF by Ireland in each of the years 2019 to 2025 and to date in 2026; the total receipts; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he will report on his engagement regarding the EU Multiannual Financial Framework post-2027.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration his proposals to prevent retail crime.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will outline the breakdown of facilities, that is, toilets, eating areas with benches, caravan parking, showers and so on, in each of the Coillte managed forests.

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the supports available to small businesses and enterprises regarding the rising cost of energy.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of referrals in child primary care psychology services since processing disabilities was introduced; and the number currently on waiting lists.

Asked the Minister for Health if staffing levels differentiate between adult and child primary care psychology services; and the number of staff employed in each service.

Asked the Minister for Health the current waiting time for child primary care psychology in counties Cavan and Monaghan.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the preparations his Department has undertaken for the implementation in Ireland of the EU REACH restrictions on the use of lead ammunition; the timeline for the introduction of any necessary regulations to give effect to the restrictions; if a transition plan is being developed to support owners of licensed firearms who may be affected; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he has considered the suspension of visa free travel for Israeli citizens; and the mechanisms by which he ensures that individuals who may have committed war crimes in Gaza in the course of Israel's genocide do not pose a risk to the safety of Irish communities.

Asked the Minister for Health to provide a list of the services currently available in Monaghan Hospital.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of wards currently in use in Monaghan Hospital and what they are used for.

Asked the Minister for Health to provide the number of staff employed in Monaghan Hospital, by department.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of beds currently available in Monaghan Hospital for both in-patient and outpatient services.

Asked the Minister for Health if she could provide a list of the diagnostic equipment in Monaghan Hospital.

Asked the Minister for Health if she could provide a list of theatre procedures done in Monaghan Hospital.

Asked the Minister for Health the current number of rooms in Monaghan Hospital; the number that are in use and number that are unused.

Asked the Minister for Health the WTE staff in cardiology allocated to Monaghan Hospital.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment his proposals to cultivate cross-border tourism.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment their proposals to increase the number of overnight, multi-night regional stays in areas currently predominantly served by day-trips.

Asked the Taoiseach the number of overseas visitors to Ireland in each of the years from 2019 to 2025 and to date in 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Transport the meetings he has held with the NTA since January 2026; if recently announced fare increases were discussed; and his response to the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport the KPIs associated with Bus Éireann service delivery; the rate at which they adhered to such in counties Cavan and Monaghan in each of the years 2023 to 2025 and to date in 2026, by county.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the list of projects under the coast-to-coast capital investment scheme; the status of those projects; and the expected delivery time.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will report on his proposals to cultivate cross-border tourism.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of bed nights available in each county, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to outline the work undertaken to promote all-island tourism in relation to major international sporting events which will be hosted in Ireland until 2030, by sporting project, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the dates on which the critical skills occupation list has been updated since 2023; the changes made in each instance; and the timeframe for the next review of the list.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the international sporting events taking place in Ireland that are being supported by his Department until 2030, by sporting project, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality her Departments plans to address recruitment and retention within the early years sector.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of children receiving AIM supports in counties Cavan and Monaghan in each of the years 2022 to 2025 and to date in 2026, by county, by year, and by duration of wait, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of children waiting to receive AIM supports in counties Cavan and Monaghan in each of the years 2022 to 2025 and to date in 2026, by county, by year, and by duration of wait, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the total number of people waiting for MRI scans, by county, by duration of wait, zero to three months, three to six months, six to 12 months, 12 months plus, by age that is 16 and under; 18 and under and 18 plus.

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment his proposals to support consumers financially burdened by rising energy prices.

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the current number of consumers in arrears regarding electricity bills; and the cadence at which such data is reported to Government.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of children in Cavan and Monaghan that received an assessment of need within the statutory timeframe in the years 2024 to date; and the number that did not.

Asked the Minister for Health when the HSE contracted printer will resume the printing of plastic medical cards/GP cards.

Asked the Minister for Transport to provide a list of the current local link services in each county.

Asked the Minister for Transport his plans to increase the local link services in counties Cavan and Monaghan.

Asked the Minister for Transport if Bus Éireann has a dedicated phone line available for people, particularly older people, who are unable to purchase bus tickets online; if not, if he will consider introducing one.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will provide a breakdown of the amount of funding allocated to youth organisations in each county in each of the years 2021 to 2025 and to date in 2026, by county and year, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the basis upon which there is a limitation on the ability of teachers who job-share to participate in substitute teaching; and if her Department has given consideration to reforming this.

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his Department has a strategy in place to promote the future of inland fisheries; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Defence further to Parliamentary Question No. 127 of 7 May 2026, the costs incurred as a result of outsourcing functions formerly performed by the defence forces since 2020; by function outsourced; by year; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if his Department has a strategy in place to work with Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland to promote the future of inland fisheries; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 285 and 286 of 18 September 2024, 511 of 5 November 2024, Freedom of Information Request DES-FOI-2026-0156, and their confirmation that they do not currently use artificial intelligence in the preparation of response to Parliamentary Questions, if they have ever in the past, prior to the present, used artificial intelligence in the preparation of responses to Parliamentary Questions.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to clarify the income limit thresholds to qualify for housing assistance; the last time such were increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he will report on operation of naturalisation via Irish association; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of applications for naturalisation via Irish association received in the years 2023 to date; the number of which were successful and unsuccessful; and if he will make a statement on the matter.'

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of applications submitted for naturalisation via Irish association which had been received in advance of the introduction of a points based system, which were subsequently adjudicated upon on the basis of said system; the number of which were successful and unsuccessful; and if he will make a statement on the matter.'

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 2618 of 28 July 2026, if the European Commission indicated a further reason beyond ‘other animal disease priorities’ in relation to the cessation of co-financing Ireland's bTB eradication programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.'

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he will outline the legislation originating from the European Union which he is obliged to, but has not yet, transposed into domestic law; the deadline for transposition; the consequences arising from not meeting the transposition deadline; the timeframe in which he intends to transpose, by directive, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he will outline the legislation originating from the European Union which had transposition deadlines since 2023; the deadline for transposition; those for which Ireland did not meet the transposition deadline; any penalties accrued arising from such; the timeframe in which he intends to transpose, by directive, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of children who sought an assessment of need in the years 2023 to date in 2026, by year; the length of time they have been waiting (zero-three months, three to six months, six to 12 months, 12 months plus; the number carried out; the number who have received a service statement, by year and by county; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the hospitals which currently operate a medical assessment unit, by hospital and county; those in which it is planned to deliver such; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the WTE in cardiology allocated to Cavan and Monaghan hospitals, by hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health to clarify the income limit thresholds to qualify for a medical card; the last time such were increased; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of people who contacted the GP assignment office, by county, in 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of GPs operating in counties Cavan and Monaghan, respectively, in each of the years from 2022 to date in 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport the estimated timeframe to progress the recommendations within the Strategic Rail Review which will see public rail transport resumed in County Monaghan.

Asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance his response to reports that non-VAT registered farmers selling to other non-VAT registered farmers in marts incurring additional tax due to a reduction in the flat-rate VAT top-reducing; if he is concerned that this disincentivises the sale of cattle through marts and may negatively impact security of payment and transparency around ownerships; if he will outline his related engagements; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the total amount contributed to the EU MFF by Ireland in each of the years from 2019 to 2025 and to date in 2026; the total receipts; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the projected details of Irelands income and receipts from the EU MFF in each of the years 2026 to 2030.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the allocation to the LEADER programme for each of the years 2007 to 2025 and to date in 2026, by year; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth her views on reports that a number of schools have made compulsory the purchase of tablet computers by parents and/or guardians for post-primary students.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of poultry manure importations from the north; and his proposals to ensure that this can continue to be operated in a sustainable manner.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the amount contributed to the TB eradication programme by farmers, the EU and directly by the State; the total amount allocated to the programme; the incidence rate for the years 2019 to date, by year; and the associated reasons for a reduction in the amount contributed by the EU.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of children placed on waiting lists for assessment of needs in counties Cavan and Monaghan, respectively, in each of the years 2020 to 2025, inclusive; the number of children in each county, for each year, who received an assessment of needs within six months, 12 months and within a longer timeframe, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the pathways by which a person can access mental health supports in counties Cavan and Monaghan; the WTE allocation to each service; the number of which are vacant; the reason for and duration of any such vacancies; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the current waiting time for initial appointments in Cavan and Monaghan across primary care services; by service; duration of wait; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the timeframe in which she intends to expand the eligibility criteria of the free contraception scheme.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the allocation to the LEADER programme in counties Cavan and Monaghan in each of the years from 2019 to 2025 and to date in 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if he will report on his engagements regarding the LEADER programme under the next EU budgetary cycle.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if he will provide an update on plans to expand Líonra Gaeilge scheme to new towns.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his response to proposals from the European Commission to cut the budget of the Common Agricultural Policy.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the TB incidence rate in 2019 and 2025; the amount spent by the State in support of its eradication; and the related new obligations which have been introduced since 2019.

Asked the Minister for Health if she will outline the routes through which people in Monaghan can access mental health supports.

Asked the Minister for Health if she has considered the provision of CT scans at Monaghan Hospital.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the length of the current wait list for an assessment of need (AON) in Cavan and Monaghan; the timeline for a person to be seen through an AON; the date of applications received are currently being assessed; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will outline the advice and support provided by his Department to other Departments or bodies under their aegis regarding the procurement of IT systems.

Asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will outline any deadline provided to Government departments regarding proposals to cut planned spending; and the timeframe in which it is intended to implement such cuts.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her proposals to expand the Irish diplomatic footprint in areas with a growing diaspora community.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will report on her Department's engagements regarding facilitating easier return to Ireland for emigrants.

Asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the cost of third level fees in the years 2024, 2025, 2026; his plans to reduce fees; and the timeframe in which such will be delivered.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the timeframe in which refuges will open in counties Cavan and Monaghan.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the current number of domestic violence refuge spaces within the State; the number of safe home units; and the number of each he intends to be operational by years end.

Asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the amount Ireland contributed to and received from the EU MFF in the years 2020 and 2025; and the projected amounts for 2027 and 2030.

Asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the increases to the carbon tax he intends to introduce each year until 2030.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will outline his proposals and associated targets to deliver age friendly housing in counties Cavan and Monaghan.

Asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 3144 of 14 April 2026, if she will reconsider if a person diagnosed with endometriosis could be considered for entitlement to a medical card; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of children in Cavan and Monaghan who received an assessment of need within the statutory timeframe in the years 2024 to date; and the number that did not.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality her proposals to address the gap in levels of funding for childcare against the increased costs borne by providers.

Asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No’s. 2758, 2759, 2760, 2761 and 2762 of 14 April 2026, the mechanism by which a person can avail of the referenced community based team of the ADHA programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will outline his targets regarding the eradication of child poverty; the steps he has taken in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the measures he will put in place to ensure that the Hot School Meals Programme supports local employment, delivers freshly prepared meals on a daily basis, and ensures the programme supports sustainability and local economic development across all eligible providers; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on his efforts to simplify the process for returning emigrants to exchange US driver licences.

Asked the Minister for Transport further to the Strategic Rail Review, the timeframe in which it is intended to provide rail services in County Monaghan.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment his proposals to support employment in the tourism sector.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will report on his proposals to cultivate cross-border tourism.

Asked the Minister for Transport the number of public electric vehicle chargers in the State; the targets for expanding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport the number of public electric vehicle chargers in County Monaghan; the targets for expanding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport the number of public electric vehicle chargers in County Cavan; the targets for expanding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Taoiseach the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the staff turnover rate in her Department in the years 2019 to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Defence the staff turnover rate in her Department in the years 2019 to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date

Asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the staff turnover rate in her Department in the years 2019 to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the staff turnover rate in her Department in the years 2019 to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the staff turnover rate in her Department in the years 2019 to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the staff turnover rate in his Department in the years 2019 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will provide an update on the ongoing discussions in relation to pay parity and pensions for caretakers and secretaries; if a resolution has been reached; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport the number of public electric vehicle chargers in operation in each county in each of the years 2020 to date, by county, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport the target numbers for public electric vehicle chargers for each county in each of the years 2020 to 2030, by county, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of EU transposition deadlines relevant to her Department in the years 2019 to date in 2026; if such deadlines were met; if not, the date by which they will be transposed; the value of any penalties incurred, by deadline and by year; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport if there are any agreements for cross-Border travel between transport services in this State and the North of Ireland regarding the use of public travel cards; if Leap cards, iLink cards, or other public transport smart cards are recognised in all 32 counties; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the number of settlement agreements sanctioned by his Department which would need to comply with Circular 09/2018, in the years 2020 to date; the number of which contained a confidentiality clause; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the timeline for a decision by the HSE drugs group regarding the reimbursement of risdiplam for adults living with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA); and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her proposals to expand the Irish diplomatic footprint in areas with a growing diaspora community

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will report on her engagements regarding facilitating easier return to Ireland for emigrants.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if he will report on his engagements regarding the LEADER programme under the next EU budgetary cycle.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if he will report on the implementation of rural proofing.

Asked the Minister for Transport the mechanism or fora of Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union through which he plans to raise issues of reciprocal recognition of driving licences of third countries and related matters; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the supports that exist to replace windows in a private dwelling housing a young autistic child (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to outline his engagements with representative countryside, conservation and rural stakeholder organisations, farming organisations, hunting associations and game management groups regarding proposed EU restrictions on lead ammunition; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to outline the proposals and associated targets to deliver age-friendly housing in counties Cavan and Monaghan.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth her Departments position on secondary schools requiring the compulsory purchase of laptops or tablets for pupils in school; if she can confirm that without these devices the school can refuse to provide books as normal; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the time it takes her Department to process an application for assistive technology for a child in primary and in post primary school; the number of applications for assistive technology received in 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the timeframe in which refuges will open in both Cavan and Monaghan.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the current number of domestic violence refuge spaces within the State; the number of safe home units; and the number of each he intends to be operational by year's end.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the amount of funding from the carbon tax allocated to his Department since 2020; and the amount expended.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will report on their engagements regarding CAP post-2027.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the rationale for reviewing the Memorandum of Understanding with an organisation (details supplied) and his Department, in light of the recommendations of the Independent Advisory Committee report published under Ireland's Nature Restoration Plan by Minister of State Christopher O'Sullivan, which emphasises the importance of engaging communities and supporting NGOs, citizen science, and local groups as key delivery partners; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether his Department has engaged with representative countryside, conservation and rural stakeholder organisations, farming organisations, hunting associations and game management groups, regarding proposed EU restrictions on lead ammunition; and if he will detail the engagement undertaken to date.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration whether all recognised national firearms user representative organisations were invited to participate in the Firearms Forum established by his Department; and if he will outline the basis on which invitations and appointments were made.

Asked the Minister for Health if her Department could review Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland processing timelines and introduce enforceable service standards; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if she could establish a streamlined pathway for nursing and midwifery applicants trained in Ireland and the North of Ireland, improve transparency and communication obligations to applicants; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if her Department could assess the impact of current delays on national workforce planning and service delivery within the nursing and midwifery sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the timeframe in which they intend to have an MRI scanner operational within Monaghan Hospital.

Asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will outline the cost of third level fees in each of the years 2024, 2025, 2026; if he intends to reduce fees; and the timeframe in which such will be delivered.

Asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his proposals to ensure adequate provision of accommodation for students.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the manner in which Ireland’s International Sports Diplomacy Strategy supports the work and goals of his Department given his recent comments (details supplied).

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he will report on the operation of the basic income for the arts scheme.

Asked the Minister for Defence the establishment figure of the Defence Forces; the figure required under level of ambition 2 of the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces; and the total number in 2019 and currently.

Asked the Minister for Defence the timeframe in which she plans to dismantle the triple lock neutrality protection.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of paramedic vacancies that currently exist within the National Ambulance Service; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the reason candidates on panel NRS14276 have not yet been assigned posts with the National Ambulance Service; when those candidates can expect to be placed; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health whether delays in placing qualified paramedics are affecting ambulance availability, staffing levels, and response capacity; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection when he plans to compile and publish a pre-approved list of suppliers for schools participating in the Hot School Meals Programme (details supplied); if he will ensure that, in developing these county-based supplier lists, priority is given to local suppliers using locally sourced produce, in order to support sustainable food systems, reduce food miles and strengthen local economies; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the measures he will put in place to ensure that the Hot School Meals Programme supports local employment, delivers freshly prepared meals on a daily basis and ensures the programme supports sustainability and local economic development across all eligible providers; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of bed nights available in each county, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will report on his proposals to cultivate cross-Border tourism.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth her proposals to address the increased costs borne by parents putting through primary and secondary education in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth her proposals to ensure that primary and secondary schools are adequately funded in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality to outline the proposals to address the gap in levels of funding for childcare against the increased costs borne by providers.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of children in Cavan and Monaghan that received an assessment of need within the statutory timeframe in the years 2024 to date; and the number that did not.; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his proposals to ensure adequate provision of accommodation for students.

Asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the cost of third level fees in each of the years 2024, 2025, 2026; his plans to reduce fees; and the timeframe in which such will be delivered.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if a plan is in place to ensure all 6th class primary school students with disabilities will have a place in secondary school in September 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the reason the free contraception scheme excludes women older than 35 years-of-age.

Asked the Minister for Health the timeframe in which she intends to deliver provision of MRI scans at Monaghan Hospital; and if she has considered providing for CT scans at Monaghan Hospital.

Asked the Minister for Transport whether he or his Department and the National Transport Authority will consider the introduction of a local link service in Corcaghan, Beaghkearns and Stranooden areas in County Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if a person with stamp 1 residency based on a general employment permit can become self-employed; if so, the procedure to acquire permission to do so; the specific criteria which enables a person with a stamp 1 to pursue the matter that is, the length of time in the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Taoiseach the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the process by which diplomats are selected and appointed to serve abroad; the criteria used in making such appointments; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to outline the process for selection and appointing ambassadors; whether these appointments are made through a formal competition process; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the bodies which operate under her aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if he will make a statement on the matter

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the maximum enforcement penalties that may be levied by Inland Fisheries Ireland; if he has plans to reform same; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment when his Department first began work on modernising and/or consolidating legislation relating to Inland Fisheries; the work that has been completed to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Defence the bodies which operate under her aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if she will make a statement on the matter

Asked the Minister for Transport the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if a school (details supplied) will be approved for an autism unit for September 2026; the number of pupils that will be accommodated; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if there will be State examination fees for junior cycle and Leaving Certificate students in 2026; the fees charged in each of the years 2021 to date in 2026, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the bodies which operate under her aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if he will make a statement on the matter

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the mechanism by which a company can be placed on a pre-approved list of local suppliers regarding the hot school meals scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the mechanism by which a company can be placed on a pre-approved list of local suppliers regarding the hot school meals scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the plans her Department has in place to ensure staff retention within the childcare sector; the plans to increase staff numbers within the childcare sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality when the fee increase assessment process is expected to be finalised and communicated to providers participating in the core funding programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the bodies which operate under her aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health to provide an update on the current status of the SOLAS Adult ADHD services in the Laois/Offaly area; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the total number of referrals received since the SOLAS Adult ADHD service commenced in 2024; whether referrals for patients in Laois and Offaly have been paused at any stage due to capacity or backlog issues; if so, the dates during which referrals were paused and the reasons for same; the current waiting times for assessment and treatment; the number of patients currently awaiting assessment; in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the staffing levels assigned to the SOLAS Adult ADHD service in Laois and Offaly, including details of any vacancies assessment; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health whether a dedicated base or clinical facility has been secured for the SOLAS Adult ADHD service in the Laois/Offaly area; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the measures being taken to address the backlog and ensure timely access to care for SOLAS Adult ADHD patients in Laois and Offaly; when it is expected that full access, including the acceptance of new referrals, will be restored; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the full list of surgeons and centres currently approved under the Endometriosis surgical and assessment international scheme (ESAIS) who are qualified and willing to provide surgical care to patients aged 16 and 17 years-of-age; which of these surgeons specialise in advanced endometriosis and excision surgery; the countries and hospitals in which they are based, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health whether there are any age-related restrictions or exclusions applied by providers under the ESAIS; the pathways available for referral of adolescent patients where consultants require a named surgeon in advance under the ESAIS; if she will outline the steps being taken to ensure that young patients are not excluded from accessing timely and appropriate care under the scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if her attention has been drawn to the use of the drug fampyra with regard to treating of ataxia within other EU member states; if consideration has been given to facilitating similar usage within Ireland; if so, the current status of any such considerations; the steps that a person can take to access fampyra for such treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the bodies which operate under her aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if a person diagnosed with endometriosis could be considered for entitlement to a medical card; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the bodies which operate under his aegis which have a regulatory or enforcement remit which include provision for a person convicted of an offence to receive a fine upon summary conviction, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for a person convicted on indictment to receive a fine, the associated maximum amount and duration of any related potential imprisonment term; provision for fines predicated upon the turnover of an entity, the maximum percentage thereof and any associated imprisonment term; and if he will make a statement on the matter.