Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I wish to speak on the matter raised by Senator Brian Hayes, the leader of Fine Gael in the Seanad. He discussed it with me briefly before we started. Despite the fact that the late Mr. Jim Mitchell was not a Member of this House, his status and his singular record as a politician make it proper that the leaders of the parties of the Upper House of the Oireachtas should have a chance, albeit in an informal way, of paying our respects to him.

It was Jim Mitchell's bravery more than anything else that I always commended. He had to face up to a horrendous health problem and he did so while continuing to work. I admire how he dealt with it publicly and, I am sure, privately. In so doing he was an inspiring example to other people who face such grave news about their health.

He had an undoubted record in public life in all sorts of ways, but most of all he had the common touch. He was a Dubliner who interacted with the people of his city in various ways, at local elections, general elections, European elections and everyday activities. On behalf of Fianna Fáil I join the leaders of other parties who have expressed their sympathy.

I thank the Cathaoirleach for his latitude in allowing this discussion. I also commend the Fine Gael decision, out of respect for the late Jim Mitchell, not to raise anything on the Order of Business. We appreciate that and understand it. Senator O'Toole also joined in paying respects to him.

The murder in Limerick of the security man has touched a raw nerve in everyone. It was compared to the murder of Veronica Guerin and the resources which were put in place to track down those killers. We will have a debate on that and related crime issues with the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

Senator Ryan mentioned the alcohol debate and the need for the Minister to come to the House to discuss it. He also mentioned a debate on Iraq. I too heard on the morning news the seeming contradiction of the inspector saying that all was well so far and the immediate response from President Bush that it was all a sham. Senator Ryan also wants the report on competitiveness and privatisation discussed. That would be a very worthy debate. We sent a message to the Tánaiste's office and I will renew it in an endeavour to debate that matter.

Senator McCarthy suggested inviting the Minister for Education and Science to discuss the schools building programme. I read the page with great attention, as did everyone who has been involved in supporting such projects. The Minister for Education and Science has been very open about it and has published the state of play. It would be good to have a debate with him.