Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

Absolutely. We are all receiving questions from anxious parents who are concerned about the late payment of higher education grants. There is a rash of these grants that have been delayed, are pending, refused or require further information. Would it be possible to facilitate the House with a debate on some of the relevant Bills, such as the education (patronage) Bill, as soon as possible?

The Minister for Health and Children was showing signs of being involved in the Taoiseach's replies a few moments ago. We are also getting numerous representations from constituents about difficulties in obtaining supplementary welfare through the health services in the present economic climate. A Bill is promised on this, the eligibility for health and personal social services Bill. It might be possible, through the aegis of that Bill, to generate some discussion.

Deputy Stagg and I have raised the issue of the multi-unit developments Bill many times. The Taoiseach informed the House last week that the Attorney General had some difficulties and discussions were taking place with legal experts as to how the Bill might accommodate the developments it affects. Has there been any progress with that in the last week? It is of major importance in some parts of the country.

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