Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes raised the matter of human rights and referred to former Senator Maurice Manning, who is now chairman of the Human Rights Commission. He also called for the commission's report to be debated in the House. I will be happy to put such a discussion on the agenda in the new year. The Seanad will resume after its Christmas recess on Wednesday, 29 January 2003, the same date as the Dáil.

Senator Hayes also asked for an invitation to be extended to the Minister for the Environment and Local Government to come to the House to discuss the dual mandate. Senator Norris also raised this subject, but I cannot say if he is in favour of it or not as I cannot understand my shorthand. Senator Hayes pointed out that he has no particular interest in the matter, which makes it easier for him to put forward his ideas.