Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

During our so-called recess the Joint Committee on Health and Children had a meeting on obesity and type 2 diabetes. It is amazing that GAA clubs around the country are being levied up to €10,000 per year for installation of flood lighting. It is time we had a debate on that issue. If voluntary clubs are doing their best to install the facilities to encourage maximum participation in sport, to which we all aspire, they should not be hindered. The GAA clubs cannot reclaim VAT on those charges. Will the Leader invite the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources to the House to discuss whether a special scheme could be put in place for GAA clubs and other sports facilities?

I agree with the call for a debate on the nitrates directive. We need to question the independence of the board of Teagasc, especially given the debacle last year where it closed down advisory centres around the country, reopened them, closed them again and finally reopened them again. That does not inspire confidence.