Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Glynn called for debates on fishing and type 2 diabetes.

Senator Norris mentioned the Human Rights Commission report and I would very much like to read and debate it.

Senator Ulick Burke raised the case of the four autistic children who were taken into care. I only know what I have read but I am sure there are many sides to that case and my hope is that the children will be best served and well looked after through whatever care is given to them.

Senator Leyden also referred to the Travers report and the care of autistic children. Senator Daly sought a debate on the budget of acute hospitals. Senator Quinn raised the issue of hospital cleanliness and variation in practices. I agree with him completely.

Senator Hanafin requested a debate on the Human Rights Commission report and the more important debate on human life, about which he feels strongly.

Senator Bannon commented on disquiet about the Travers report. We all deal with it in our clinics but I am sure he has read the newspaper reports. We talk about solicitors ambulance chasing. However, far more serious things are happening now which I thought I would never see. Public representatives have sought to hold clinics on the matter. Personally, I find that an appalling way to conduct business.