Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Finucane, the acting leader of the Opposition, raised the question of the mentally handicapped. Everyone in the House would agree that much remains to be done. Having said that, there have been great improvements, from the time when his own party was in government and thereafter. I readily admit, however, that much more needs to be done. We are all united on the later point which Senator Ross took up as regards autism. This is one of the most tragic of conditions to affect young people and babies. Money spent not just on care but on research which might pinpoint more accurately how and why it happens and how it may be obviated, would be of great benefit.

Senator Finucane asked when the disability Bill would be ready. I understand it will be in the autumn, but the education disability Bill has passed all Stages in the Dáil. There have been over 200 amendments and I understand it is vastly changed from the Bill which was presented to the Dáil. We are ready to take it here. It is now a matter of timetabling. It is a very important Bill. I hope we will debate it the week after we return. The Senator talked about Travellers. I take his point that settled people have rights, just the same as the Traveller community. This feeds into the mini-debate we had on equality and inequality this morning.

Senator Norris asked for more information about the motion I moved yesterday. The motion was No. 17 on the Order Paper, calling for the removal from office for stated misbehaviour of Judge Brian Curtin, pursuant to Article 35.4 of the Constitution. The motion was moved by me and the debate was adjourned. This debate will resume when the committee to be established later today by the House makes its report. The debate will resume when the committee makes its report to the full Seanad. Senator Norris also talked about the danger to pedestrians and cyclists when the Luas comes into operation. The metro will also go ahead. I know that Senator Norris and I have always been of one mind in this matter. It appears to be inching slowly along, pardon the pun. Information about it will emerge soon.

Senator O'Meara spoke about the financial position, which is good, thankfully. She said some of the money should be used to address the issue which Senator Finucane raised. I am hopeful that will happen. She is also concerned about third level, and I suppose, second level, students who work part-time which may be affecting their studies. Young people have always wanted to have money in their pockets. My prime job as a young student was washing dishes in the hotel where we lived.