Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

——-and this would make North-South co-operation much more relevant.

Senator Ross spoke about the levels of crime and racketeering which are evident in the North. He also referred to the social partnership talks. I believe this is a subject which this House should debate. It was referred to in our reform package. It would be very worthwhile were the protagonists to come to this House and put out their stalls so we could see what they had on offer and what they wanted. Social partnership has been extremely valuable for this country and it is one of the reasons for our continuing good economic growth rate. The Senator's point is valid in that there is no involvement of the Houses of the Oireachtas in the formulation and outcome of social partnership.

Senator Browne raised the issues of VAT charges on sports facilities. He also referred to Teagasc. Senator Terry raised the issue of civil partnerships. She said the Government is dragging its feet and that it should be noted that we are no longer just a country of one faith.

Senator Feighan referred to the important development at Lough Key which is worth €150 million and to the Dúchas observation regarding the planning file for this development. He questioned whether this observation had a bearing on the final planning permission outcome. I do not know the answer but it is no more than judges in court cases. Bodies are established to do their business and there is not much one can say once they do so. This seems to have been a potentially valuable development.