Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator O'Toole agreed with Senator Brian Hayes and asked for debate on the matter. I have just been explaining the reason there cannot be one.

Senator Ryan asked how it would affect the Seanad resumption at 3.45 p.m. if there was an amendment in the Dáil to the Redundancy Payments Bill. When I spoke about the resumption of business, I was careful to include the proviso, "If the Bill is passed". If there is an amendment, we will telephone spokespersons and arrange for them to be present for the debate. The Senator also gave us the statistics for those earning over €50,000 or €100,000 contained in the latest Revenue statements.

Senator Cox raised the issue of the home births scheme, an issue which concerns both women and men. The home births and Domino schemes have been a success. The Minister for Health and Children is interested in introducing the scheme in different health board areas. It is important that women have the choice to opt for home births, the money for which should be ring-fenced within the health boards.

Senator Coghlan seconded Senator Ryan's proposed amendment on the issue of third level fees. He also asked how we would tie down builders. The purpose of the review by the all-party committee on the Constitution of the ownership of land and how it can be released is to deal with this issue.

Senator Kitt asked about J1 visas. We will pose a query to the American Embassy.