Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Ryan raised a concern about Report Stage of the Opticians (Amendment) Bill. There are seven amendments, two of which are textual. I would not normally do things this way and there should be a gap between Committee and Report Stages but the amendments did not appear to need a lot of reflection. That is the reason we have ordered matters this way.

I also heard the piece on radio regarding the European Commission giving one's dietary needs and other personal data to the United States. While I presume the information is wanted to combat terrorism, I wondered about this also. A representative of the Commission discussed the matter, which does not seem to arise from any legislation or directive and about which I will make inquiries.

Senator Ryan also agreed with Senator Brian Hayes about pensions. Regarding the committee tier of the national agreement, by their very nature they represent a broad sweep of individuals with various concerns. That is the reason they have divergent views.

Senator Finucane asked about an honours system in Ireland. Various ways of honouring people such as honorary doctorates from universities have been mentioned. They are keenly appreciated by their recipients. Senator McCarthy said Senators appointed by the Taoiseach were part of an honours list.