Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Morrissey's points are very fair, nonetheless. Senator Michael Finucane asked that the labour inspectorate be strengthened, particularly in the area of language skills for inspectors who are dealing with immigrants. He also raised the matter of ESB standing charges, which are €94 for those living in rural areas and €52 for those in urban areas. Many people in rural housing estates are being charged the rural rate as the electricity service has been extended. That appears to be a rip-off and I will investigate it further.

Senator Jim Walsh raised the issue of sectarianism in Northern Ireland. We also have sectarianism in the Republic of Ireland. The Senator wants an all-party motion to be signed ——