Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I support the last point made by Senator Brian Hayes. The House should know that it was the arrangement for a number of years, agreed by the previous Minister, that in the event of the system not being able to cope with the demand for child psychological evaluation at primary level, a certain amount of funding was made available to schools to purchase services in the private sector. There was no objection to this arrangement, which had been sought by trade unions, management and parents. It was an effective system which removed difficulties and I ask that it be reconsidered by Government.

A recent discussion in the House highlighted the concerns of Members with the proposal to have a referendum on immigration policy to coincide with the European and local elections. The view from all sides was that it would be a disastrous move. I note with some satisfaction that the Government has listened to what was said and appears to be pulling back from that dangerous situation. However, it is equally important that the Government confirms that the referendum will not be held at the same time as the forthcoming elections. There is doubt on the issue which we should not allow to continue. It would be appropriate for the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to outline his proposals, or for the House to have a Government view on when it is likely to deal with the issue.

I accept that the issue must be dealt with in some manner but there should be much discussion before it is put to the people. The referendum should not be held at the same time as an election as that would feed the racist tendencies of too many in Irish society. I ask the Leader to address that point.