Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I agree with Senator Hanafin, who the House remains in admiration of, that it is a people's budget. Senator Norris also mentioned the Centre for Public Inquiry, his ideas on which are similar to those of Senator Maurice Hayes. He mentioned his wishes in respect of Iraq and we hope to have that matter resolved to everyone's satisfaction by next Tuesday. I thank the Senator for his letter, which was given to me by the Clerk Assistant of the Seanad.

Senator Mansergh highlighted the recognition of social equity and said child benefit has quadrupled since 1997. Senator O'Meara asked for a debate on child care and pre-school education, which I hope will be forthcoming. She also spoke about flexible work patterns. If the Private Members' Bill is passed, this will be included. The Senator referred to Shannon Airport. CIA manoeuvring was also mentioned.

Senator Maurice Hayes spoke of an idea concerning the Centre for Public Inquiry similar to that of Senator Norris. He also asked about what is happening in respect of the Civil Partnership Bill 2004, a similar version of which is operating in Northern Ireland. I am informed by Senator Norris that he has tweaked, changed and inserted more measures in his Bill. I note in newspaper reports that the constitutional review committee will shortly produce its report on what it will put forward in that respect and I hope there will be a congruence of the ideas of the Senator and the committee.

Senator Maurice Hayes raised the need to align the penalty points systems of the North and South. Senator Bannon outlined how much it costs him to avail of freedom of information provisions concerning prefabricated buildings in counties Longford and Westmeath. He also spoke about toll charges, which we will all experience. Senator Glynn referred to people taking stock from rivers and canals and leaving nothing in them. He also asked for a debate on men's health. When we went to the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children and her officials, they suggested that under the statements on oncology services one can talk about either men or women. All are subject to the supply of chemotherapy and radium services.