John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

She had made a prior commitment to attend a very important international conference. I think that deals with that issue.

Senator McCarthy also spoke about on-line motor taxation. He was joined by Senator Glynn in raising the question of non-insured drivers, an issue which he had raised on a previous Order of Business about the sale of cars and the need for insistence on motor insurance. The Senator has also highlighted a loophole as regards on-line taxation and that is something on which we will seek clarification from the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

Senator Ó Murchú raised the issue of tourism and the role of bed and breakfast facilities in particular. We all value their contribution to the tourism industry. A general debate on tourism would be welcome in the House. I am not sure whether we have had one, but it is something we should seek, where——