Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I am always brief. I agree with Senator Brian Hayes on the ending of the hunger and thirst strike at St. Patrick's Cathedral and, in particular, his remarks on the refugee appeals board. Obviously the system is in need of urgent examination. Allegedly, one member of the refugee appeals board has not allowed a single appeal, although my colleague, Senator Browne, informs me that has been corrected. Whether it has, there is a need for more transparency in the system and it must be seen to operate on the one set of criteria. I look forward to hearing the Leader's views on that issue.

Senators Brian Hayes, O'Toole and O'Meara referred to the sale of Aer Lingus, and it is time for a debate on what is best in the national interest. The Great Southern Hotels group is a case in point. It has been decided to sell the hotels. They have had expressions of interest. There is an advertised sale date by which tenders must be submitted for lots or the entirety of the Great Southern Hotels group.