Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

On a general principle Senator McHugh approves of the abolition of the dual mandate. It is interesting to hear both points of view. The National Development Finance Agency Bill would be an appropriate vehicle to raise the subject of the Downings project in Donegal. Senator McHugh mentioned the Minister, Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív, and the value for money on projects which require a new feasibility project three years later.

Senator Ross supported Senator Leyden on the matter of the Nigerian woman and has given me a good idea, a Private Member's Bill. I will work with him on that. On his other point, legislation is being brought in the UK, in January or February, which is concerned with preventing inordinate payments to executives and I would be glad to work on it.

Senator Finucane mentioned the Irish Box. The Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources is well aware of the difficulties. We sent word to him last week. He is working on behalf of the nation and I wish him success.

Senator Tuffy is opposed to the abolition of the dual mandate and the rushed Order of Business. Senator Kenneally mentioned that today is the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the ESB. I will be glad to send a letter from the Seanad because it appears to have the approval of the whole House.

Senator Cummins asked why Waterford Airport is not getting the money for PSO routes. It is because Irish taxpayers pay for them but we have to get permission from Europe to provide them. They are only from outlying areas to the capital city of the country and do not operate from a regional airport to destinations outside the country. There has not been a consistent Waterford to Dublin route. The flights were going to various parts of the UK and perhaps further.