Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

It is more than seven years since the Good Friday Agreement. There have been many false dawns together with much frustration and fudging. David Trimble's political career is over and support for the SDLP has eroded while Sinn Féin's support has increased. The marching season is about to commence. I wish the Taoiseach good luck in London later where he will meet the DUP. He is focused on talks again having had recent meetings with Sinn Féin. We can reflect on the commitment made by the leader of Sinn Féin, Gerry Adams, at the beginning of the UK election campaign when he said he would advise the IRA to end paramilitary activity. There is speculation it will end and I hope there will be an announcement in this regard in the near future because with the marching season upon us, a cloud will hang over Northern Ireland. We would all like to see the Good Friday Agreement advanced and I hope it will be in the next few weeks.

Cancer statistics were published recently and a worrying trend emerged in the high incidence of prostate cancer in the south west between 1994 and 2001. The roll-out of BreastCheck nationally has been criticised on the basis it is not happening quickly enough. However, I would like the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children to come to the House to discuss this issue. The test for prostate cancer is simple. Many older men prone to the disease have medical cards. If the Tánaiste were to introduce a free test for prostate cancer, it would demonstrate a little imagination and action on her part. The test is very simple and there is proof that if prostate cancer is detected early enough, it is a treatable illness. Male illnesses of this type can often be forgotten about. I would like to see a step taken towards doing something about this cancer.