James Bannon (Fine Gael)

Following a report circulated by RGDATA on what it describes as "ghost town Britain", it is important to invite the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Harney, to the House to debate the action needed to avoid "ghost town Ireland". I am concerned at the great number of small rural post offices, shops and other business outlets that are closing down in rural Ireland on a weekly basis. It is important to have a debate on the issue. Large stores are starting to dominate at the expense of small enterprises.

The Hanly report was raised by Senator Tuffy. I wonder whether a second Hanly report was launched at the weekend, because there was a great deal of backtracking on the original report. The Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Martin, has backtracked on the downgrading of accident and emergency units in two thirds of the country's hospitals. That is welcome on this side of the House.

As regards what Senator Dardis had to say on the opening of Croke Park, I would welcome it——