Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

The collections are wonderful. CIE offered sponsorship through the Arts Council, encouraged new artists and bought their paintings, many of which are now very famous and have accumulated great value over the years.

Senator Ó Murchú pointed out, quite correctly, that there are two types of stem cell research, namely, embryonic and adult, and asked that there be another debate on the matter. We will seek this.

Senator Quinn also called for this debate and stated that firemen do not have a compensation scheme for themselves, which I cannot understand.

Senator Ulick Burke referred to class sizes. It is well documented, as in the parliamentary question, that there are 4,000 extra teachers, most of whom are concerned with special needs. This is fine and we are all very pleased they are concerned with these pupils, including foreign children who need particular care because they must learn a new language even though they may be a little older than is desirable. The Senator wants a debate on class sizes and we will certainly endeavour to have it.

Senator Feighan referred to the partnership process and stated the needs of small farmers and businesses should be accommodated within it. IBEC would have had a special role in advancing the cause of all businesses.