John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I am open to correction on it, but it is obviously preferable that the flights be open to scrutiny and that we be able to see what they contain.

As regards the Middle East, I too hope that if Hamas emerges as the victor in the election, as appears possible, it will lead to a transformation of the way in which it has conducted its business and that it will understand the responsibilities of the outcome of a democratic election. While it has been regarded as a terrorist organisation by the European Union, I note that the EU seems prepared to deal with it. Senator Hanafin also made a point concerning Iran, and the way to deal with those matters is to have a debate on the Middle East.

Senator Dooley correctly pointed out regarding water pricing policy that people are being prevented from building in villages because of a lack of services.

Senator Coghlan raised the issue of IKEA. When it came to Ireland, many people welcomed it, and it went into an area that required something of that nature. That is all that I will say about the matter.

The important issue of ageing was raised by Senators White, Leyden, Henry and Bradford. We know that we have an ageing population, and it merits a serious debate, since it will cause many problems in future regarding pensions and people in the workforce. I am sure we all look forward to Senator White displaying her passion in the House.

Senator Bannon mentioned anti-social behaviour in accident and emergency departments. Something should be done, and either the hospitals themselves must provide security, or it must be given to them. The Senator is correct that it is a serious matter.

Senator McCarthy raised the issue of the sale of property in Harcourt Terrace, which may raise a great deal of capital. It is in an extremely valuable part of the city, and if that capital can be used for other facilities elsewhere and the gardaí in the area continue to provide a service, I have no difficulty.

Senators Walsh and Hanafin spoke of Vodafone, O2 and the matter of competition, which we could also debate. Senator Walsh made a good point on vested interests regarding both the legal profession and consultants. It never ceases to amaze me how people who earn so much money and are so privileged do not feel more responsible towards the rest of society and the State. I simply cannot understand that. I may be naive, but that is my view.

Senator McHugh made a good point regarding children with learning difficulties. The situation has improved immeasurably in recent years, but I accept there are still deficiencies, especially regarding dyslexia. I will bring those matters to the Minister's attention.

Senators Browne and Bradford made a very important point regarding the nitrates directive. It is a matter of serious concern, not only to this House but to the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Roche, and the Minister for Agriculture and Food, Deputy Coughlan. It has very important implications, even for ordinary farming operations, and the House should give it serious consideration very soon.

The €56 million moved from the HSE's capital budget was explained by the financial officer of the HSE on the radio, and the Tánaiste is to make a statement on the matter in the Dáil at 2.40 p.m. The matter can be disposed of there, and we should wait to see what is said before we decide whether to discuss it.

Senator Hanafin raised the issues of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board and VRT. His proposal regarding young drivers was very good, since getting insurance is a serious difficulty for them. What he has suggested merits earnest consideration.