John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

Senators Ryan, Norris and Quinn raised transport matters and some of the statements made yesterday by Mr. Shaw. I heard what he had to say last night and he was quite vigorous in his statements. I noticed that Deputy Howlin was one of those who rebutted what he had to say; he suggested that everybody in politics was culpable. Deputy Howlin made the point that there was a broader culpability than that. I share that view. It is matter we should try to debate. There should be a general review of the road safety policy and I am sure the Minister would be happy to do that. With regard to the matter of HGVs, I agree with Senator Ryan. When travelling on the Naas dual carriageway last night in the rain I noticed many of them travelling at excessive speeds. Even though the road is restricted at present, it is very dangerous. In all of this there is a matter of individual responsibility. People have to be responsible for their own conduct. It cannot always be done by regulation. I appreciate that the traffic corps is being strengthened and I welcome the development taking place in Donegal. There is also a commitment from the Garda to have more gardaí on the roads. That is helpful but there must also be a degree of personal responsibility. I do not know the answer to Senator Ryan's question about the aircraft but I will certainly try to find out.

On the matter of the European Council acting in public when it is legislating, I agree this should be done and I have made that known to my own party. Hopefully it will happen. It is provided for in the constitution and, when that is adopted, it will happen, but it should happen in advance.

Senators Leyden and Norris raised the issue of television licences, which are a serious burden for the elderly and those of limited means. In general the national broadcaster provides a good service. It is useful that there is a tension between Government, politics and the broadcaster. I do not see anything wrong with that. It is the regulator who will decide whether the fee is increased. If the other channels are required to fulfil a public service remit, I do not see why all the money should go to RTE. I made this point when the legislation was passing through the House. They have an entitlement if they are required to have a public service remit.

To return to the Rory Carroll matter, there is an important point about the press which relates to RTE. It is essential that we know what is going on in Iraq and these people provide a valuable service. Even some of those who are active in their kidnapping realise that. That is one of the reasons I am hopeful Mr. Carroll will be released.