Michael McCarthy (Labour)

The Leader said No. 3 would be taken between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. this evening. She then said the sos would be between 6.30 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. Can she clarify the matter?

In comments made yesterday, the Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Batt O'Keeffe, spoke of the amount of litter fines issued in this country last year. Approximately 23,000 on-the-spot fines were issued, but figures indicate less than half were paid. This is grossly unacceptable and indicates a failure at local government level. Litter is an issue which has blighted this country for long enough. We have tried to educate and direct people into thinking of litter as a scourge. Who is at fault? Can the Leader arrange a debate with the Minister of State on this serious issue? We must understand whether it is local government or the Department which is failing in its duties.

Depression is another taboo issue which is a source of concern. Irish and British experts warn that some doctors prescribe anti-depressants far too easily for mild depression. The National Institute for Clinical Excellence in the UK recommends that anti-depressants not be used for initial treatment. This is a sensitive issue. Can the Leader organise a debate and get guidance from the Minister for Health and Children with regard to what UK health authorities have stated? What standards do we have in Ireland with regard to prescriptions for initial treatment of depression?