John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I agree with Senator McHugh with regard to the single farm payment. We should ensure that as many farm families as possible receive payments before Christmas. I have heard similar sentiments on the grapevine to those referred to by the Senator.

Will the Leader arrange for a debate on the future of An Bord Pleanála? I ask this in the context of a decision taken by the board last week on the new M9 road between Waterford and Dublin. The inspector of the board made five clear recommendations that the section of road between Gowran and Stoneyford in County Kilkenny should not be built, for a variety or reasons. However, the board backed the building of the road on that route. Such anomalies cannot be allowed to exist. The Leader should arrange a debate on the issue as soon as possible.