Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

One can have it whatever way one likes, but not in the Chamber. On that note, I congratulate Senator McHugh, who I understand has become engaged.

Senator Coghlan asked about the review which recommended the setting up of another public safety agency. I do not know what happened regarding that recommendation but I will inquire into it.

Senator Mooney supported Senator Ó Murchú and mentioned the experience of Cat Stevens who was also subjected to quite obnoxious questioning. He also raised the issue of the proposal of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell, regarding the establishment of a press council. I will inquire as to whether the Minister will come here to debate the issue. I strongly agree that if the media are willing to question on one issue, they should be willing to report on what is being done at the Council of Europe which, I am sure, is of great relevance.

Senator Terry attended the launch of the Women's Aid national helpline statistics. I had intended to go. The statistics show that more than 5,000 calls could not be attended to and that there were many more calls in 2003 than in 2002. Senator Terry requested a debate on the issue.

Senator Hanafin stated that there should be tolerance across the board. We would all agree with him. On taxation, he agreed that people who earn millions of euro should pay a minimum level of taxation but that there should be a balance in the debate about taxation and the risks people take, for example, by investing in business expansion schemes, should be taken into account.

Senator Bannon raised the issue of car testing arrangements. I will arrange to have a debate on that matter.

Senator Kenneally asked that the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Deputy Noel Dempsey, be invited to the House to debate the charges levied by mobile telephone operators. He agreed with Senator Finucane's comments regarding fireworks and bonfires. I agree that local authorities should take a more proactive role in the issue.

Senator Phelan raised the issues of the national car test, accident and emergency facilities and nursing homes. Senator Shane Ross suggested in the context of the debate that developed in Europe that there should be a direct information channel to this and to the other House so that people could find out what is going on in Europe. He also suggest that the relevant Minister should come here to give us his opinions on the issue.

Senator Feighan also sought a debate on the national car test. He stated that legislation relating to fireworks had failed. There is legislation but it is not being enforced.

Senator Dooley sought a debate on the western rail corridor and echoed what Senator Finucane said regarding the terror caused to elderly people. It is not too exaggerated a description because elderly people are living in terror after nightfall.

Senator Browne raised the issue of nursing homes. It is the interpretation of the legislation that is in question. Different people give different interpretations.