John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I agree with Senator O'Meara regarding the rumblings from the Health Service Executive and the possible implications for the provision of hospital services around the country if they are to be administered through four regional bases rather than through ten such bases. As Members of the Oireachtas we should be given an opportunity to let our views on that matter be known. I am aware that Senators on the Government side of the House also have strong views on this issue.

I also agree with my colleague Senator Finucane, who noted the latest rip-off mentioned this morning on national radio. The ESB has different charges for connections in rural and urban areas, and some people in newer urban areas are facing rural charges. The Minister responsible could usefully attend the House for a discussion on the matter.

Before the recess, I spoke about the National Educational Psychological Service. The Minister for Education and Science, Deputy Mary Hanafin, should come to the House to discuss the lack of psychologists in the service. There are serious problems and a serious divergence in the levels of service being provided throughout the country. For example, in County Kerry there is 100% cover for primary school students but in Kilkenny, where I live, there is only 18% cover. As a former teacher, the Leader will agree that the assessment and early recognition of psychological or educational difficulties in students is vital. The Minister should be invited to the House to discuss this as soon as possible.