Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Maurice Hayes applauded the fact that police forces in general do not have to use force in order to carry out their duty, but sometimes must be armed. He asked why we passed up the opportunity to have Dublin called the city of literature. Colm Tóibín did not win the Booker Prize, but it would have been nice if he did. However, that is another debate.

Senator Brian Hayes agreed that there should be a debate on accident and emergency services. Senator McCarthy asked for a debate on reports of the Committee of Public Accounts, particularly those relating to education and health. I am sure such debates will take place.

Senator Mansergh said that the UN issued a mandate post the invasion and asked us to support the troops. Senator Quinn referred to accident and emergency services and the lack of beds. He asked the Tánaiste to come to this House to discuss the matter. Senator Kitt said that we should support the Taoiseach and the Minister for Foreign Affairs in their efforts to unlock the abduction of Margaret Hassan.

I am aware of the social economy project to which Senator McHugh referred. He said there should be not just one project but a whole programme in Donegal because of the recent deterioration in the jobs situation in the county. The situation in Inishowen would be a suitable subject to raise on the Adjournment.

Senator Ulick Burke asked whether the project on bullying in schools will be allowed to lapse despite all the work that has been done on it. I hope it will not as there are clear links between bullying and suicide. This should be dealt with on a nationwide basis rather than allowing a valuable project to go to ground.

Senator Bannon asked for an urgent debate on the health service. He said that while travelling to this House his constituents were calling him on the matter. He sought to include in the debate a report on suicide.

Senator Feighan said there should not be a decrease in the numbers of armed gardaí. He also asked for a debate on the postal service. Senator Brennan asked that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform uphold the written commitment given to Mrs. Anne McCabe following the death of her husband. I am sure he will, but we will put the question to him.