Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator O'Meara called for a debate on the report on children that was issued by the children's ombudsman, Ms Logan. I think that would be good. She also asked for a debate on cervical cancer.

Senator Jim Walsh asked for a debate on the 1916 commemorations. He also sought a debate on the toll plazas and on the terms of the NTR contract. Senator Sheila Terry seeks a debate on tolling and on PPPs.

Senator Mansergh asked for a debate on nitrates. However, I could not get over the howl that came from the Opposition benches — they are in howling form today — when Senator Mansergh suggested that farmers' issues be discussed as part of the social partnership talks. Such issues are always discussed and are one of the pillars of the social partnership. Senator Mansergh is quite correct, but I think the howling betrays the Opposition's underlying feeling towards the social partnership talks.