Seanad debates

Wednesday, 1 February 2006

3:00 pm

Photo of Mary O'RourkeMary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Mansergh also spoke about Senator Stanford and how he wished more of his faith would participate in debates on matters such as the 1916 Rising or its ideals. Senator Cummins raised the issue of lap dancing and expressed fears about where such clubs are situated. We should say well done to Senator Ross who has been very stalwart about road tolling. He asked that the Minister come to the House and he congratulated the Taoiseach on his U-turn. A Labour Party Minister negotiated the terms of the tolls but a Fianna Fáil Minister signed off on it.

Senator Bannon raised the nitrates directive. Senator Quinn called for a debate on energy, as he did before Christmas. I also noticed the telling phrase used by President Bush when he referred to Americans as being "addicted to oil". Senator Feighan called for a debate on planning linked with tourism.

Senator Tuffy raised the issue of tolls and called for a debate on the 1916 Rising. She is right in that James Connolly was one of the heroes of 1916. His ideals are very redolent of what happened then and afterwards and they still remain vibrant in Irish society. Of course, we should talk about him when we debate 1916.

Senator Bradford raised the recent National Economic and Social Forum report on the elderly. We will seek to have debates on a plethora of reports next week. I will have great delight in noting who is and who is not present. Senators are so keen for work.

Senator Henry referred to No. 5, motion 21, on the Order Paper. She was also worried about the sudden change in how consultants would carry out their work which was announced this morning. We will seek to get the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children to come to the House, which I understand is what the Senator would like to see happen.

Senator McHugh raised the issue of the nitrates directive. He was astounded or affronted that it might be included in social partnership talks.

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