Shane Cassells

Intent: In Budget 2025, it is essential that the Government commits to fully resourcing and implementing the Action Plan for Disability Services 2024-2026.

Details: Pre-Budget Communication to the Seanad, Ministers and TD's highlighting the issues facing people with intellectual disabilities and their families, and the critical sustainability issues that are facing the organisations providing supports for these individuals - this includes St Michael's House.

Intent: Raise awareness of start-ups views on a number of matters of policy matters of relevance in technology ahead of regional summit

Details: Issues applicable to startups in relation to Start-up survey and regional summit

Intent: To share the findings of the Payments Europe True Value of Cards Ireland Country Report, which provides a detailed breakdown of both merchant and consumer preferences and views in relation to Irish payment ecosystem. The opportunity to meet representatives from Payments Europe to discuss the report was also offered.

Details: Publication of Payments Europe True Value of Cards Ireland Country Report

Intent: Amendments needed to copyright legislation to protect publishers' content and ensure fair negotiations with platforms; Speedy enactment of Defamation Bill; Highlight impact of new Revenue rules re contributors

Details: Copyright / AI; Defamation; Revenue rules; ensuring sustainable future for journalism

Intent: To allow for innovation and growth within the EU’s AI regulatory framework.

Details: To discuss the EU's AI regulatory framework.

Intent: Advocating the economic benefits of HRI & to ensure continued government support for the Irish horseracing industry

Details: Stallion Trail Invitations

Intent: To raise awareness of the importance of independent media in Ireland and Government support for same.

Details: Defamation Bill 2024, broader support for media

Intent: Communicate the importance of key transport infrastructure and links, and get an understanding of related timelines and progress

Details: Meetings to discuss public transport infrastructure plans and transport links in Cork

Intent: Ensure an increased understanding of Apple's priorities and update on operational challenges and opportunities

Details: Meeting to discuss the EU simplification agenda, and implementation of EU legislation (EU Digital Markets Act, and Audiovisual Media Services Directive)

Intent: Ensure awareness and understanding of Ibec and B9+ (a group of business federations in D9+ states, including Ibec) digital policy priorities for D9+ policy makers.

Details: Meetings on D9+, a group of likeminded EU member states on digital policy