Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

As has been suggested, it would be a good idea to ask the Minister of State, Deputy Killeen, to come to the House for the debate.

Senator Ryan spoke about an important memo that never came to the attention of the former Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Martin. Senator Ryan suggested that the Minister should run the Department so that those items do come to his or her attention. He also asked for a debate in the new year on the question of Turkey's accession to the EU. Such a debate would be appropriate. I see Senator McCarthy is laughing and thinking that the turkey will be finished by that time. I immediately knew what he was thinking. Does he remember former Deputy Alice Glenn?

Senator Dardis pointed out that the Joint Committee on European Affairs has voted to approve Turkish accession to the EU. He also spoke about the report on migrant labour and work permits. There is a good article on this issue in one of today's newspapers.

Senator Coghlan asked for a debate on the report by the Commission on Electronic Voting. The Clerk of the Seanad is a member of the commission and we have received the report. Senator Coghlan also asked about the arrangements for the debate on the Health (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill 2004. I will speak about that later.

Senator Leyden asked for a debate on missing persons and has kindly supplied me with material on this issue. Such a debate would be useful. It must be a very emotive issue for the families affected, particularly coming up to Christmas when the unoccupied chair is especially noticeable.

Senator Norris asked for a debate on the issue of work permits. He also raised the issue of arrangements for off-licences and the fact that so many such licences are now available. He also spoke about the campaign to free the so-called "Miami Five" and said that the House should ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs to send somebody to scrutinise the situation.

I admire Senator Kitt's stamina. He was in great form last night.