Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

The Senator agreed with the sentiments expressed by Senator O'Toole on gangland crime and the intimidation of witnesses.

Senator Cummins referred to the status of the N9 road to Waterford. The matter has been raised and we will come to it.

Senator Quinn expressed outrage at what happened in the courts yesterday. As he put it, we must keep calm and maintain the delicate plant of democracy. The Members of the House had a very fine, general debate on the matter. People treated it with absolute seriousness and refrained from thumping the tables.

Senator Browne raised the matter of the postal service. Mail used to take a day to come to Athlone in post-Famine times, but now it takes three days. There is a new person in charge now and he is making great strides. Hopefully, the service will improve. Senator Browne has asked that the Minister should come to the House to address the issue.

The issue of road fatalities was raised. Whereas before traffic kept in line, on the road from Athlone to Dublin cars overtake even if one is travelling at the speed limit. There was a speed trap on the road this morning and four or five drivers were caught.

Senator Bannon supported Senator Higgins's remarks about making publicans responsible for stopping smoking if it occurs. He asked that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform come to the House to discuss the matter. He also asked that the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs come to the House to discuss poverty.

Senator John Phelan raised the matter of the N9 road and also called for a debate on the arts plan which would be very opportune. We have not had a debate on the arts since returning after the summer. We should hold one.

We sought the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform last week, but he is abroad at the moment. When he returns it would be worthwhile to invite him to come before the House.

I thank Senator Hanafin for his compliment.

Order of Business agreed to.