Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes proposed that we would seek to have the Tánaiste here after the Order of Business to debate item No. 1. Earlier this week, he said that a debate should be held on the matter. I made inquiries but the Tánaiste is taking the Order of Business in the other House and it will not conclude until12 o'clock at the earliest. We will endeavour to have the Tánaiste here later today or tomorrow. I also think the matter should be debated. Everyone received notes by e-mail or post but I would like to hear her speak on it. As I cannot guarantee that she will attend, the Senator has every right to propose his amendment.

With regard to the jailed farmers from County Mayo, Shell claimed this morning to have asked to speak with them but the people in question would not attend a meeting. It is sad that they are in prison. Nobody can blame the justice system. The judge must do whatever is laid out or put to him. I hope and believe that Bishop Jones and representatives will use their good offices to broker a suitable arrangement.

Senator O'Toole also wants a debate on risk equalisation. He asked for a First Reading, that is, the printing of the Bill he prepared jointly with Senators Coghlan and Norris. It is a good idea to have it printed for a First Reading and we will have the Second Reading as soon as we return. I commend the industry of Members in bringing forward legislation.

Senator Ryan seconded the motion proposed by Senator Hayes and referred to the issue of Shell in County Mayo which, he said, concerned disproportionate power. He said that a safe process does not exist when transporting chemicals through lands. He also discussed child poverty and today's protest rally and wants a thorough debate on overseas development aid.

Senator Dardis said that risk equalisation is not a question of ideology. He went on to talk about the unfortunate jailing of the people from County Mayo and expressed the hope that a solution would be forthcoming.

Senator Finucane said that when he was Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, the matter of the National Aquatic Centre was fully discussed. Regardless of the structure of the roof, a violent wind blew on the days in question. He wants the report brought forward.

Senator Callanan praised the Minister for Agriculture and Food on her work in Russia in terms of selling Irish produce. He called for debate on beet sugar and the Council of Ministers. A better opportunity will arise later to hold a decent debate.

Senator Norris had no criticism of the judge presiding over the jailing of the people from County Mayo. I concur with him on this. He commented on the history of Shell and what he described as the rapacious way in which this multinational company has conducted its business. He also noted the shortage of blood for use by the health services.

Senator Kitt commented on the jailing of people from County Mayo and the debate on Sellafield, in which leaks remained undetected for nine months. That such a situation obtained is amazing.

Senator Coghlan commented on No. 14 on the Order Paper. He also wanted the restoration of his stage payments Bill to the Order Paper.