Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

The Senator called for a debate on homelessness. We have already asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to come to the House and I hope he will do so soon.

Senator Dooley is correct when he says the transport legislation is urgently needed. Senator Quinn raised the policy on handcuffing suspects in criminal cases. On television last night I noticed Mr. Tobin – he is no longer Brother Tobin – was not handcuffed as he was brought from the court. We had the example of George Redmond the previous week. I do not know if this is a hit and miss policy. There used to be a policy about soldiers, women and young people. I do not know if this is political policy or an internal prison matter, but we can make inquiries.

Senator Finucane referred to the transport legislation and asked whether it could incorporate other legislation needed for traffic management. This is an urgent two paragraph Bill, which will be ready in the morning, but the other question can be raised. I was asked if I could clarify the matter regarding community employment schemes. We will see what the Estimates will bring, but I cannot clarify the matter.