Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Maurice Hayes spoke about the vigilante-type terrorism that is developing in the North and how serious it is. Senator McCarthy referred to the dormant funds and "golden Thursday". There is something slightly old-fashioned about announcing jobs all the time. When the full complement of jobs is not delivered, one has to pull back from the original announcement. However, the Tánaiste has done a great job on the employment front. Unemployment is currently running at under5%, which is remarkable in a period of downturn.

Senator McHugh, on jobs policy in the north west, referred to a lack of competitiveness. Senator Minihan believes the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Deputy Dermot Ahern, should be asked about an amendment to the Post Office (Amendment) Act 1951. There is much more to that issue; the safety side must also be considered.

Senator Quinn talked about the delay in the driving test, which is now up to a year. This is wrong if the emphasis is to be kept on road safety. There is a strategy for ensuring tests are held at a faster pace, but this is not happening. The Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Deputy McDaid, is in charge of that particular segment of transport activity, so we will invite him to address the House on the issue. Senator Dooley would like to see a debate on the Government's jobs policy. That could well be of benefit. Senator Feighan is seeking a debate on the beneficial tax implications for those in the higher echelons of the racing industry. Senator Henry is seeking a debate on the national screening strategy for women as regards cervical cancer. Senator Morrissey is also seeking a debate on jobs and has asked that the Tanáiste be invited to the House to discuss the matter. Senator Terry referred to the non-implementation of aspects of the intoxicating liquor Bill, in particular the demise of the happy hour provision which leads to unfettered drinking. I was not aware that provision was still in place. Perhaps there is a phasing out time involved.

Senator Ulick Burke asked that the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Ó Cuív, be invited to the House to discuss the disbursement of funds by the independent board under the Dormant Funds Act. I will ask the Minister to come to the House to discuss that matter. Senator John Paul Phelan also referred to dormant accounts, the Tanáiste and the jobs situation. The Tanáiste has proved very willing to come to this House. A debate on jobs, leaving aside the issue raised today, would be useful.

The Minister for Finance, Deputy McCreevy, introduced legislation to deal with accounts that had been dormant for 15 years or more and from which nobody was benefiting.