Seanad debates

Tuesday, 28 June 2005

2:00 pm

Photo of Mary O'RourkeMary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I agree. I am sorry, but I was provoked and am equally provocative. I will stop. Senator Dooley is young, as are my two sons, so I go by what those nice young people say.

Senator Ryan said that Fianna Fáil does not understand the meaning of a promise. We do.

The Senator also wants a debate on risk equalisation, as does Senator Ulick Burke. It is a difficult matter. I do not know if we will have the time.

Senator Leyden asked about the Registration of Wills Bill 2005. I have said it will be introduced early in the new session.

Senator O'Meara spoke about child care. The report of the Ombudsman for Children, Ms Emily Logan, is worth debating. I heard her talking about children at risk on the radio this morning. I did not attend the launch of the report.

Senator Mooney asked me to arrange a debate early in the new session on foreign affairs and emigration. He clearly specified the amount of money that has been allocated by the Government to overseas development aid.

Senator Browne also called for a debate on risk equalisation. He asked when the report on sudden adult death syndrome will be published. I understand there was another death of that nature last week. The Senator also spoke about the sugar beet industry. We are endeavouring to find an additional hour for a debate on the matter. I do not yet know the outcome of that process.

Senator Quinn discussed the report of the Ombudsman for Children. He mentioned that judges face difficulties when deciding where to send — I hesitate to use the phrase — recalcitrant children. The Senator's view on risk equalisation is refreshing and interesting.

Senator Mansergh mentioned that the Taoiseach answers far more questions in the Dáil than some of his predecessors. I do not want to provoke a debate on the matter. He also asked for a debate on the EU sugar plans.

Senator John Paul Phelan agreed with those who said we need to have a debate on risk equalisation. He argued that a quango is being established to deal with social and affordable housing. If the Senator comes to Athlone, he will see that a great deal of excellent social and affordable housing has been built there.

Senator Terry said that the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism should publish the reports on the National Aquatic Centre. She suggested that the Minister should ask a group of independent engineers to inspect the structure and produce a report on foot of that. It is a fair point.

Senator Bannon also raised concerns about social and affordable housing. I also invite him to come to Athlone.

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