Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Thank you, a Chathaoirligh. I hope to be able to schedule a debate on that matter next week, but I cannot race out and get a Minister today.

The Senator also sought a debate concerning the Government's scientific advisor, Mr. McSweeney. It would be a good issue for an Adjournment debate because it is about one focused point. I understand that Mr. McSweeney's primary degrees are excellent qualifications and that he is highly regarded in that way. There is no doubt, however, that the matter of his PhD is unfortunate. It would be a good item for an Adjournment debate.

Senator Norris referred to the fact that the United States has owned up quite breezily and in a cavalier fashion to the use of chemical warfare. It is quite amazing when we all know the damage chemicals can do to people. The US army has used them in the bombing of Falluja. The term used for this weapon was "shake and bake", but just imagine talking about people in that fashion. The Senator said the Government should protest directly to the United States on its use of such weaponry and he also referred to the use of Shannon Airport by US aeroplanes.

Senator Ryan said that Cork Institute of Technology would never fail to ascertain the qualifications of a PhD applicant and would always check out the details. He also formally seconded Senator Brian Hayes's amendment to the Order of Business. In addition, he sought a debate on the property boom. I understand from the Deputy Leader that the remark was made in the context that property is the least efficient form of investment.