Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes raised the 2001 health strategy. He said it promised 600 primary health care centres but there are only ten pilot centres and one operational centre in Virginia. He asked that the Tánaiste be invited to the House to discuss her ten point plan. We will issue the invitation today. The health service is the main issue raised in this morning's debate.

Senator O'Toole referred to the odours on one side of the city that are generated by the other side of the city. I will not delve into that. He also mentioned low taxes. I have always been of the opinion that low taxes and world class services do not go together. The Senator also referred to the Great Southern Hotels. The Taoiseach has a great affection for the Great Southern Hotels and would wish them to stay in operation. Whether they should remain under the control of the Dublin Airport Authority, formerly Aer Rianta, is another matter. I agree that the hotels are fine facilities and should be retained.

Senator McDowell raised the health service issue and voiced his disquiet that the Mater Hospital is being put in the position of almost seeking alms. I am in two minds about the Joe Duffy radio show. People wish to express themselves, they are entitled to do so and he is a conduit for that. However, I had a great sense of unease at how the health service was perceived.

Senator Leyden mentioned Roscommon Hospital. Senator Finucane wants the Tánaiste to come to the House to outline her ten point plan. The issue of driving tests was also raised. Approximately 100,000 people are waiting for driving tests but just one person has been appointed in the past three or four years. Senator Kitt raised the health service and the out-of-hours doctor service. He believes accident and emergency services should not be privatised.

Senator Coghlan raised the Great Southern Hotels. He quoted Mr. McGann's opinion that the status quo is not an option. We will invite the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism to the House to discuss that range of matters. I agree they are first-class hotels but apparently they are losing money. Senator Mansergh spoke about the excellent Tipperary health centre and the Great Southern Hotels. I accept his point that they are a vital asset but they are a little like an unwanted orphan. Previously, they were part of the CIE organisation. They were then part of CERT before becoming part of Aer Rianta. Now, the Dublin Airport Authority does not want them. They will have to be put in a situation where they will be well managed.

Senator Norris talked about the media event surrounding the health service and pointed out that brawling drunken people are making a mockery of accident and emergency services. He then proceeded to an issue which the Cathaoirleach does not want us to discuss.