Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

I agree with Senator O'Toole on the need for the Minister for Health and Children to come to the House to explain her plans, if any, to address the potential dangers of a flu pandemic which occurs every few decades. As far as I know, our plan dates back to 2002 and has not been updated. Today in Luxembourg, 22 countries will meet to discuss this important topic. England already has 14.6 million doses of an anti-viral drug and has plans in place to close schools and cancel public events. It is important we are prepared. Given the Government fiasco with the iodine tablets a few years ago, the public will not have much confidence. It is important that we allay its fears and are prepared.

Will the Leader invite the Minister for Transport to the House to debate the recent trend of people moving from buses to Luas? That was certainly not the intention. Unfortunately, the number of car users remains steady or may have increased. We need a debate on transport. Luas was intended to divert people from car usage.