Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Quinn referred to credit card debt and also to conserving water. He pointed out that in France hot water comes straight from the tap, but in Ireland one has to run it for a while. Such a system would be useful in water conservation.

Senator Moylan pointed out how easy it was to receive a credit limit extension on a credit card. Senator Terry raised the point about the concerns of those who chose equity-based SSIAs and who may now find themselves losing out. She also has her beef with pensions. However, pension funds could opt for a more balanced approach and invest in property and various stocks. The Senator always raises this point about pensions and is right to do so.

Senator Norris also raised the issue of human rights in China. He also claimed it was impossible to get information and reports from the HSE. He wants a rolling debate on the health system to include the charter of the Adelaide Hospital.

Senator Cummins raised an issue he often highlights, namely, the provision of identity cards for young people. He asked if there was some way to expedite the production of ID cards for young people, rather than them having to produce their passports at every call.

Senator Hanafin called for a debate on alcohol abuse which would be very useful. Senator Ross asked for a debate on the banks. He wants the head honchos of banks to be present in the Chamber during such a debate to leave themselves open to questions from the floor.