Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Moloney raised the issue of radon testing, a matter we can raise with the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government. I understand there is a small cost to radon testing in houses and it is recommended.

Senator Colm Burke referred to the fact that €13.4 billion was paid last year, the same amount taken in in income tax. That highlights the difficulties for the Government in balancing the books. He also highlighted commercial rates and the burden they represent to those in the retail sector.

Senator Reilly referred to the VEC amalgamation and criteria in an example of how to ask a question on the Order of Business. Senator Reilly asked the question and sat down rather than pontificating.