Despite the wonderful weather we are having, there is a certain sense of foreboding around the country as we see - thanks to Donald Trump - the dark clouds of economic uncertainty beginning to gather. I am conscious that in such circumstances, where we have had difficulties in the past, we have always moved to secure the well-being and welfare of the most disadvantaged and the less well off. It is in that context that I have been thinking about those who have been impacted by thalidomide. It is nearly 50 years ago since I first heard the story of thalidomide. Fifty years has elapsed and we now have approximately 40 people living with that condition in the country. To say that I am embarrassed and ashamed that we have not yet met their needs and resolved the difficulties is something of an understatement.

Sentiment score: -0.18

Does the Taoiseach see his Government being able to meet the needs and resolve the problems surrounding those survivors of thalidomide?

Sentiment score: -0.03

Why is it that this great State of ours-----

Sentiment score: 0.71

-----has to be forced so often to apologise for the mistakes of the past?

Sentiment score: -0.39