John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I join with the Cathaoirleach in extending a welcome to our Swiss colleagues who are here today.

Senators Brian Hayes, Ryan, Ó Murchú, Walsh, Maurice Hayes and Coonan raised the matter of Northern Ireland. I still believe we should have a debate on the wider aspects of the whole situation, particularly with regard to the restoration of the Northern Ireland Assembly and the Northern Ireland Executive.

I take the point that has been made as regards the councils and note it is proposed to reduce the number from 27 to seven. Even if Northern Ireland is overgoverned, as has been asserted, that appears to be a draconian reduction. It is primarily an internal matter, of course, but I echo the point made by several speakers to the effect that the system of local government that operates in Northern Ireland contributed significantly to cross-community understanding and was part of the impetus within the peace process. From that viewpoint they had an important role to play and it is one that should be borne in mind. We will see whether a debate may be arranged to discuss this and the wider implications at an early date.

Senators Brian Hayes and Bannon spoke about school transport. Senator Hayes referred to the Navan bus crash. I understand the Director of Public Prosecutions is to bring a prosecution, so it is not appropriate to comment on that particular aspect of the case. However, I take the point made by the Senator. In any situation of this nature the families should be the first people to receive the report. I am sure the Government and the Minister will be mindful of that fact.

I support the points made by Senator O'Toole as regards the Garda in Limerick and join in his congratulations on the work it is doing. As regards alternative energy, an opportunity exists for sugar beet and other crops to be used. As time goes on and fossil fuels become scarce and prices go up, the economics of this issue will increasingly come into focus. The Joint Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources is looking at this matter, together with wind and other forms of energy. While the tax incentives are being reviewed, fairly critically and correctly in some cases, they all have a role in promoting issues of this nature. Tax incentives have a role to play because as matters stand, some of these initiatives can operate on a negative energy balance. It costs as much in energy to produce them as what emanates from them.

As regards Senator Ryan's comments on the suspension of party members, I will bring them to the attention of the former Member of the Oireachtas, Desmond O'Malley, who has some personal experience of this matter.