Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Fidelma Healy Eames raised a number of pertinent matters related to flooding, an issue on which we have a debate next week. I hope the Senator will avail of the opportunity provided to raise with the Minister the issues she highlighted.

Senator Averil Power called for a debate on the crisis in emergency departments. She also noted the need to recognise the state of Palestine, as was outlined in the other House last year.

Senator Hildegarde Naughton also raised the issue of flooding and referred to the meeting held yesterday with insurance industry interests.The Taoiseach mentioned that the meeting was a very constructive one, with all parties acknowledging the exceptional nature of recent events and the considerable distress for victims of flooding. They agreed to work together to find the best possible ways to provide maximum insurance cover for all concerned. I think that would be the wish of everyone. We can have that debate next week.

I am afraid I cannot accede to the requests to amend the Order of Business as proposed.