Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Ryan, with the support of Senator Hanafin, argued strongly that the House should issue a unanimous statement to the effect that the Israeli authorities' refusal to allow the Chairman of the Palestinian Authority, Mr. Arafat, to go to Bethlehem should be overturned. I agree with the Senator and I am sure other Senators feel that a motion, signed by representatives of the various groups in the House, should be passed without debate. It is a poignant matter to consider at Christmas, as the town of Bethlehem has a particular resonance for most people.

Senator Ryan also asked about the list of amendments. I agree that it is unfortunate that the definitive list is not yet available. It is not the fault, however, of the Cathaoirleach or the hard-working staff of the Seanad. I do not know why the amendments were received late by the Seanad officials. The Senator is right to state that it would be preferable if the amendments had been made available within the stated and proper time. It should not have happened and I apologise to the House for it.

Senator Finucane spoke about the importance of traditional music in the context of the Arts Bill, 2002, and called for the Bill to be brought to the House. I understand that the Bill has reached Committee Stage in the other House. Has it been discussed in the Dáil?