Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I endorse Senator Hanafin's request for a debate on stress, a matter of great concern, particularly for students at examination time. Given the number of suicides we have seen occurring around the country, including in my locality, the debate should be broadened in order to debunk the misguided stigma attached to mental health. A recent UCD survey showed that only 13% of students who suffered from stress availed of counselling, far too low a level. We should play our part in this regard.

It would be appropriate for the House to endorse the Government's case against Sellafield which is being taken in the Hague. In the last Seanad we had many debates during which all sides of the House advocated stronger Government action to counter the dangerous risks posed by British Nuclear Fuels' operations at Sellafield. The House should wish the Government well in its efforts which we hope will be successful.