John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I support Senator McHugh's comments. As a rural Member, the Cathaoirleach will be familiar with the problem of rural depopulation and its effects on services, post offices, schools and various sporting organisations.

Will the Leader arrange a debate on agriculture as soon as possible, with particular reference to the recent announcement on CAP reform and the procedures for single payments? It would be opportune to hold such a debate soon. The proposals contain a number of potential difficulties and I urge the Leader to arrange a debate.

I share the sentiments of Senator Brian Hayes regarding the holding of the proposed referendum on 11 June. I do not welcome this move and I urge the Government to rethink that plan before it is put into practice.