Michael McCarthy (Labour)

I wish to raise the issue of the Chernobyl Children's Project. During the last few days some signals have emanated from Belarus to the effect that the number of children travelling to Ireland under that project could be restricted. This project is successful, worthwhile and important for the wellbeing of the children in that badly blighted area. Perhaps the Leader would raise this issue with the Minister, Deputy Dermot Ahern, to ensure that the numbers planning to travel will actually do so. The children come here for much needed rest and recuperation. The least we can do is ensure that the Minister for Foreign Affairs intervenes to ensure that this happens.

Senator Norris raised a significant issue. Will the Leader follow up on the matter of the Gulfstream jet and report back to the House? Finally, we have already seen a successful initial step in decentralisation. The former Deputy from Kildare North is now an EU Commissioner. That is a good form of decentralisation.