Marie Moloney (Labour)

I voice my concern in regard to the proposal to destroy the database which hold details of blood tests taken from babies, known as the heel test. This practice has been going on since the 1960s and there has never been a complaint about it. I know it contravenes EU law but it might be a retrograde step.

Other Senators raised the household charge but I have a suggestion for the Leader to make to the Minister. People who have paid their household charge should be given free radon testing in their houses. If the Minister could write off €45 from the septic tank registration fee with the swipe of a pen, he could write with that same pen that people should be given free radon testing in their houses. Areas along the west and east coasts show very high readings of radon. The Minister could do that as a goodwill gesture. Other Senators have called for him to attend the House and when he does, I will put this proposal to put to him.