Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

I agree with my colleague, Senator Brian Hayes, regarding the announcement of land for houses. It is amazing that the Government did not avail of the debate on the Private Members' motion on housing in the Dáil to make the announcement and that it chose instead to give it to the press.

The television coverage and reporting of the proceedings of the Seanad could be improved in many respects. Much good work is done both in this Chamber and in the committees but little of it is reported. That is a pity. Many of the questions put by Members to the various delegations are not reported either. The media seem to be over-reliant on press releases and only one side of a story. The days of investigative journalism appear to be numbered.

Will the Leader consider debating transport in the new term, particularly the new speed cameras? The Minister has said he intends to privatise the service. I am concerned about this and that those involved will see it as just a money making venture rather than a traffic safety matter. I would be nervous about such a proposition given the bad example and money grabbing techniques of the clamping service in Dublin.