Derek McDowell (Labour)

One will travel far and wide before finding a Christian Brothers school where rugby is played. That is the bottom line.

I was interested to see the coverage in recent days of the Kyoto Protocol, which is about to enter into force following its ratification by the Russian Federation. It seems to have suddenly struck the Government that this is a very serious issue that could have serious implications for our economy and the fiscal position of the country in years to come due to the potential for serious fines if we fail to meet our international obligations. However, it has been clear for some time now that as matters stand, we have no chance at all of meeting our international obligations. This is a train which is coming down the tracks towards us at great speed.

It is remarkable that Ministers seem to have only now become aware of it because the Departments of Finance and Enterprise, Trade and Employment have been aware for some time now of what is approaching and have done their level best to ensure at least one measure – to which, in theory, the Government is committed, namely, the introduction of carbon energy taxes – goes no further. This is the sort of matter the Seanad could usefully debate because it will be around for the next two or three years but nonetheless requires urgent measures from the Government. It also requires action from society in general, for example, from industry and those who provide energy. I ask that provision be made for a debate on the issue.