Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes asked if I could explain the potential impact of the apparent drafting error in the State Airports Bill 2004. When I telephoned the Office of the Attorney General this morning, I was advised that the Department of Transport has taken legal advice from the Attorney General and outside agencies. The Minister will explain the newspaper reports when he comes to the House this afternoon. I did not speak to the Attorney General because I had to attend a party meeting, but his office assured my office that it will be perfectly clear. We will hear what the Minister has to say when he comes to the House. I initially telephoned the Clerk of the Seanad, who advised me that I should contact the Office of the Attorney General.

Senator Brian Hayes mentioned the 12 July celebrations in Northern Ireland. We were all pleased that there was relative calm there, with the exception of the events of late last night. He asked for a discussion on the North when the House meets in September, especially given that there may be a small window for consultation in that month. We will have such a debate.

Senator Norris called for statements on the Middle East in the House in the absence of a Minister. I agree with Senator Tuffy in that regard. I have often said that I do not intend to have debates without a Minister being present in the Chamber. I know Senator Norris made his suggestion in good faith, but I do not think it would be appropriate.

Senator Norris also raised the declaration of the UN International Court of Justice that the West Bank wall is illegal, which was mentioned in the House last week. It seems that no heed is being paid to most of what is coming out of the UN.

I remind Senator O'Meara of my response to Senator Brian Hayes on the drafting of the State Airports Bill. The Minister for Transport will provide an explanation when he comes to the House. I agree the legislation is being rushed — there is no point in saying otherwise. Senators will have an opportunity to speak on the Bill. Senator O'Meara spoke about the growing crisis regarding the European working time directive and her belief that the health system is ill-prepared for the change and will not cope. Members of the medical profession were working approximately 78 hours a week which is beyond all proper standards for working time.

Senators Minihan and Norris raised the conflict in the Middle East. Two days have been set aside for discussion of the State Airports Bill 2004 in this House and I do not want that time to be diluted by the inclusion of other Bills or other debates. We shall discuss the matter of the Middle East when we come back in September. Senator Minihan also spoke of the Portuguese man who is charged with the murder of the young hotel worker, Ms Gráinne Dillon, and is seeking repatriation to his own country. I shall raise this matter with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

Senator Finucane asked about the transfer of the Shannon Industrial Estate and its development authority. This is provided for in the State Airports Bill 2004 and the Minister for Transport, Deputy Brennan, will be in this House shortly for the debate on that legislation so we do not need to dwell on the matter now.

Senator White spoke about the Central Bank and the state of indebtedness in which the population finds itself. There are EU directives regarding banking but instructions from the Governor of the Central Bank should be heeded by the bank. I do not know how this will affect its lending policy. Senator Ross suggested that the Governor be invited to this House. He regularly attends meetings of the Select Committee on Finance and the Public Service but, as the Cathaoirleach observed, it a matter for CPP to decide who should be invited to the House. However, we shall further consider the point Senator Ross has made and, in particular, the problem of young people being granted large loans far too readily.

Regarding the Northern Ireland talks scheduled for autumn, Senator Mansergh observed the constructive speeches by Mr. Geoffrey Donaldson of the UUP and Mr. Gerry Kelly of Sinn Féin. They are pointers to what we hope will be a more constructive atmosphere for the September talks.

Senator Lydon proposed that this House should sit on Thursday to accommodate a debate on the situation in the Middle East. I shall make inquiries as to the level of enthusiasm for such a proposal. Senator Lydon himself might have to oversee such a debate.