Maurice Hayes (Independent)

I disagree with Senator Ryan on the question of non-lethal weapons or less lethal weapons. There is no such thing as a non-lethal weapon. The fist is a lethal weapon. It is important that policemen do not have to use lead bullets all the time. A policeman in a difficult situation must have an alternative that can be used. I applaud the fact that police forces all over the world are looking for less hurtful and less damaging means of stopping people who attack them and we should encourage that development.

I ask the Leader to find out from the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, who was asleep at the post, why Dublin forgot to apply for the position of the honour of city of literature? This is not only a matter of pride in our writers; it is of significant economic importance. It seems that this slipped by in the dark.

I support Senator Brian Hayes in calling for a debate on the crisis in hospitals. My own hunch is that there are enough beds but it is important to get other suitable provision for people who do not need to be in acute beds.