Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes, the Leader of the Opposition, raised the citizenship issue, which I understand is before Cabinet today for discussion and, I hope, decision. The issue relates to the parents of Irish children having to leave the country and bring their children with them, or worse, leave the children behind. The Senator asked whether the matter would be decided by legislation or by ministerial order. I presume it will be by ministerial order because the general legislation was to fulfil the requirements of the referendum. Having done that and with the people having voted, it is time for clemency and I believe clemency will be shown. I will investigate the matter for the Senator.

Senator Brian Hayes also referred to the legislation in regard to Dáil boundaries. Legislation on boundary changes and the boundary commission recommendations is being drafted at present.

Senator O'Toole referred to the Immigration Bill 2004 and to a lively debate in the House on the parentage of children during which the Minister stated he would not be punitive. I listened to the Minister's contribution on the relevant section of the Bill and he was positive on the issue.

Senator O'Toole also referred to the student teachers who protested outside Leinster House yesterday and called for the Minister for Education and Science to debate the issue in the House. The student teachers seek an allowance while in training, as others in training might be paid an apprenticeship rate. The Minister is scheduled to come to the House in January or February next.

Senator McDowell welcomed the decision of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform in regard to the non-national parents of Irish children. He also welcomed the sale of the National Irish Bank to a Danish bank. A report this morning suggested that small firms find it difficult to get decent rates and advantages from banks.

Senator Finucane made his points well. He stated that immigrants should be allowed to work. There are over 400 immigrants in Athlone at present. They do not want to walk around aimlessly day after day as they are able-bodied women and men who seek jobs. Plenty of jobs are available for them and I hope they will be enabled to take up job opportunities because they want to work and integrate into the community. These 400 immigrants have lived a long time in imperfect accommodation. I hope that whatever decision is reached in this regard, it will stipulate that immigrants should be eligible to apply for work. Senator Terry raised the same matter in a more comprehensive way. It is a good point to make and I hope such a decision is made.

Senator Finucane also referred to e-voting and the verifiable paper audit trail which was the major objection to the system at its previous outing.

Senator Norris commended the Taoiseach on his handling of Northern Ireland issues and his telephone call to Dr. Paisley. He asked that all sides would grow up and stop insisting on developments that might not prove possible.

The Senator also welcomed the action taken by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform with regard to the parents of-——