Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I commend the patience of the Leas-Chathaoirleach.

Senator Finucane, the acting leader of the Opposition, noted the report of the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority and asserted that Irish motorists are being fleeced due to the disparity in insurance rates. The Senator also raised the urgent issue regarding Filipino nurses whose spouses are not allowed Irish work permits and who must subsequently leave their nursing jobs because both partners cannot work. Such joint employment is possible for these people in Northern Ireland. Senator Finucane also noted that because of the changeover to the four year degree in nursing, there will be a year in which the colleges of nursing will have no graduate output. I am sure the Tánaiste and the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Martin, are considering this matter.

Yesterday was International Human Rights Day. Senator Norris spoke of the killing of children in Iraq and suggested we look at the Dublin and Monaghan bombings in the context of human rights. He and Senator McCarthy also raised the issue of electronic voting.

The Barron report will be considered by a joint committee, some members of which sit in this House and will constitute a strong presence. Any Senator can attend joint committee hearings and any Senator who is a committee member can contribute as can attendees.