Kathleen O'Meara (Labour)

I add my voice to calls for a debate on the future of Aer Lingus. People have asked what the future of the company will be in the event that privatisation proceeds. We do not know the answer to this valid question just as we did not know what would happen to Telecom Éireann following privatisation. It is now too late to roll back that privatisation. The question which then arises is whether we are willing to take a similar risk with Aer Lingus. We cannot afford to do so because the sale of the national airline puts the national interest at stake. While I sense the Taoiseach has doubts about the value of privatisation, I also sense that certain forces are determined to proceed with it. It is important, therefore, to debate the future of Aer Lingus.

I share the relief of other Senators at the outcome of events in St. Patrick's Cathedral at the weekend and, like Senator Brian Hayes, believe it is important that an urgent review of the refugee appeals system is carried out. The recent actions of refugees were clearly not taken lightly and we must listen to their pleas.

On a matter I have raised previously and on which the Leader is probably working, what is the position with regard to the review of the regulations governing the operation of crèches? When one considers that the welfare of thousands of children is dependent on the operation of these regulations, one would expect the review to be urgent. We are still waiting for news of the proposals by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on a press council. I ask the Leader to let us know when that is likely to happen.