Brendan Ryan (Labour)

Senator Brian Hayes asked earlier that the Minister of Transport be invited to the House. Perhaps when he is here he will deal with enforcement of safety equipment requirements for airlines registered in Ireland. Following the recent tragedy on board an aircraft owned by the biggest airline operating out of Ireland, a doctor and two nurses spoke of the unavailability of rudimentary first aid equipment on board the aircraft. It now appears the 25 year old woman might have died as a result of the absence of that equipment. Airlines have legal obligations in this area. I would like if the Minister could tell this House when an official of the Department of Transport last carried out an inspection of safety equipment on board aircraft in this country. We are all aware of the laxity in terms of the implementation of regulations regarding heavy goods vehicles. The recent tragedy may have happened as a result of a lack of enforcement in regard to safety equipment requirements..

What has happened to the Oireachtas Library? I have received a wonderful document from the Board of Works outlining the architectural joys of the Oireachtas Library. However, it no longer has a monitor which broadcasts what is happening in the Seanad. The only monitor in the Library is broadcasting what is taking place in the Dáil. While I respect the other House, this House is entitled to the same respect.