Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Higgins and Senator White requested that Connex and the Strategic Rail Authority in the UK speak to the Minister for Transport about what happened in regard to the former's contract. There is a debate at 7 p.m. tonight, which all Members of the Oireachtas may attend. I received notification of the meeting from Senator Dooley, who is a member of that committee. All Senators may attend the meeting and hear the questions teased out and it would be good for them to do so.

Senator MacSharry referred to the penalty points system. As he said, the Irish Insurance Federation has been very quick to state it will not give reductions in insurance premiums, even though there is clear evidence that there has been a reduction in the number of road traffic accident fatalities. The federation appears to be reluctant to offer reductions in insurance premiums.

Senator Henry raised the issues of morale in the health service and also this daft survey in which she has been invited to participate. We often receive telephone calls asking us to participate in surveys. I usually respond by saying I am too busy. The surveys ask such questions as how many people one employs.

Senator Mansergh echoed what Senator Ryan said and agreed with the need for a debate on transport, Connex and Connolly Station. I hope we will have a major debate on this topic when we return after the summer.

Senator McCarthy raised the job losses in Macroom and Dunmanway, both of which are areas that have suffered. Senator White requested that, before the end of the session, the Tánaiste attend a debate on the state of indigenous industry. I understand the Tánaiste is not well and will not be able to attend. The Senator also asked if the Taoiseach could attend a debate in the House on his meeting with the British Prime Minister, Mr. Blair. I am still pursuing this.

Senator Browne requested a debate on transport in general and the two pieces of legislation due in this area. He also requested a debate on housing. He suggested Thursday when business would be slack. It is not, because I hope to keep it free for the Taoiseach to attend a debate, if I manage to arrange it. It is a remote possibility at this stage. Senator Kitt said Galway had received good news about transport but he wants more.