Mary White (Fianna Fail)

Will the Leader arrange for the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Harney, to come to the Seanad before the end of the session? The strength of the euro and the weakening dollar and sterling are creating a crisis for indigenous industry. We saw the effect it had on Navan Carpets. I predict the situation will worsen for indigenous companies exporting to the United Kingdom.

As the Taoiseach is meeting Prime Minister Blair today, I would appreciate it if the Leader could arrange for him to come to the House to discuss those talks before the end of the session. I wish to inform Members that the Joint Committee on Transport, which will be attended by members of the RPA, is meeting at 7 p.m. this evening. It would be a good idea if Members attended and heard directly the correct position of the RPA.