Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Today's debate has been a lively one. I am glad the Athlone group who had been in the Gallery have left before I reply. They were very welcome.

Senator Brian Hayes referred to the task force on student behaviour which is to produce a report in June. He called for a debate on school discipline, disorder and school expulsions and asked who has the final say on whether a child leaves the school. That could be allied to the difficulties concerning bullying in school and the policy on that issue. A debate on that matter would be useful.

Senator O'Toole said the report on the western rail corridor was published last week. Some Members appear to have received the report while others have not. I did not get a copy.