Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Finucane mentioned the horror stories in accident and emergency units. One would want a heart of stone not to be bowled over by what is happening therein. The Senator also called for action on the reports the former Minister, Deputy Martin, left on the desk. I am sure the Tánaiste does not need me to tell her that immediate short-term action is required in addition to action on reports, which I hope will rule out what is now happening.

Senator Cox called for a debate on child care. It is extremely urgent that we have such a debate. I know couples who are paying more than their mortgage on child care. It is a very painful set of circumstances.

Senator Norris referred to the kidnapping of Margaret Hassan and stated the plans are clearly not working.

The Senator supports the gardaí in their action at Dunsink. We all do so given what was found there, which included an amazing amount of different things. He also called for a debate on road safety and the silly changing of speed limits from 60 mph to 50 mph to 40 mph to 30 mph over a short distance. I share the Senator's experience, namely, travelling at the correct speed and being flashed constantly to move over. One would like to unleash a sign telling the other driver one is travelling at the correct speed but he or she is not.

Senator Ó Murchú said he saw Ms Hassan being interviewed at the time of the invasion. I did not see that. He repeated his previously expressed feelings on the war.

Senator Coghlan referred to the very significant profits of insurance companies and the sanctions that will be imposed if these are not passed on to consumers. We debated the PIAB Bill in this House and that body has been set up. A Member of this House was a valued member of the committee which presumably has powers of sanction.