Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

The Leader of the Opposition, Senator Brian Hayes, asked about the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Deputy Coughlan. He was appreciative of her about-turn but asked what we had done about it. We have done a great deal about it, and I am very pleased that she has done that. The Senator asked how it was to come about. It does not require legislation and will come into force very quickly through regulation. The Senator also spoke about the victims of violence, speaking about Senators Ó Murchú and Bradford and how we deal with victims of violence from all groups rather than concentrating on one sector.

Senator Ross mentioned the declaration of interest — motion No. 10 on the non-Government motions list. He asked about the Judiciary and its interests, as well as those of a sitting President. The Standards in Public Office Commission has been set up by legislation to deal with such matters. I understand, though I have no knowledge of the matter other than through my personal dealings as a Senator, that from time to time it reviews the circumstances under which various groups must declare an interest. I have no difficulty in passing on the Senator's suggestion to the commission.

Senator Brendan Ryan raised the property report. We should debate that in this House immediately when we return, since it is very comprehensive and requires intense reading. However, it is very worthwhile doing so, and I hope we can show a range of views. The Senator also mentioned Iraq, and of course the situation there is terrible. Hans Blix was correct when he said it is worse now than it ever was, even in the time of Saddam, evil as he was. The Senator complimented the widows on their campaign. I too thought they ran a very good campaign. They were full of dignity and yet did not go on about it. The back to education allowance is something we should hone in on and I had hoped the Minister for Education and Science, Deputy Dempsey, would have been able to come to the House before Easter, but that was not possible. It is hoped he can address the House early in the new term.

Senator Brady spoke about general practitioners, some of whom need security for their surgeries because of methadone. He has asked for a debate on the drugs issue. We received a comprehensive report on drugs in recent days from the National Drugs Advisory Board. That could be the main feature of the debate, which will take place after Easter.

Senator Ulick Burke spoke about male teachers. Despite what he said about the relatively low number of men in teaching, it is male teachers who are appointed principals. He said that only 17% of teachers in primary schools are male, yet something like 80% of principal posts are held by men. That is another question altogether and it is extraordinary. I agree that combined male and female influences on young people in schools are good. I have often thought it harks back to the idea that when children start primary school, normally at aged four, they are still regarded as being just out of infancy. It is a wrong notion, perhaps, but it is generally accepted that a woman might be a better influence on the child at that particular stage. Men cannot be given extra allowances simply because they are male. That would be absurd. However, this is a social issue that needs to be debated. Teaching is a good career but I do not know how we can approach a debate on the issue. There is a need for gender balance in primary schools. In secondary schools and comprehensives, etc, the balance is much fairer.

Senator Ó Murchú raised the Pat Finucane case. He agreed with Senator Hayes about the levels of anguish among Nationalists and Unionists. He said the anguish is the same and that humanity should be the bottom line in dealing with such matters.

Senator Tuffy, who is a distinguished member, along with others, of the All-Party Committee on the Constitution, dealt with property rights and land speculation and asked if the Taoiseach would address the House. The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Cullen, would be the appropriate person to talk about it because it falls into his lap. She asked about the lone parent's entitlement and that will be queried. They are caught in the same trap, I believe.

Senator Kett made a plea for the curtailment of drink this bank holiday weekend, given that so many people will be on the roads. It would be amazing if we could have an accident-free holiday weekend. However, it would be well worthwhile.

Senator Bannon is welcome back to the House. I know he was not well.