John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

We should be pleased that they are paid well for working in good conditions. There are difficulties in manufacturing and agriculture, but they are the only two sectors in which the numbers of employees have decreased. There were record levels of job creation in 2005. Senator Quinn mentioned high added value, which is central to this debate. We have to change. There will be more job losses if we try to stay where we are. It is something we should discuss.

Senators MacSharry and Coonan raised the issue of planning. Such matters can be considered during the debate on the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Bill 2006.

Senators McHugh and Glynn highlighted the National Youth Council of Ireland's report on the stereotyping of young people. It was ever thus. Older people over the generations, for as long as we can remember, have had a view on younger people and younger people have had a view on older people. I note that the report contains some concrete proposals to deal with the issue. It is something that the House could usefully examine.

Senator Cox called for a debate on special needs education. We will see if that can be arranged. She also spoke about Great Southern Hotels. I understand that the Leader is endeavouring to organise a debate on that matter in the House at the earliest possible opportunity.

The issues of rendition and flights can be dealt with by organising a debate on the floor of the House after the reports have been examined and we have seen the Council of Europe's response. We can have a debate then.