Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Coonan asked about the various charges on the ESB bill which add up to 20% of the total, and the Government dividend that has been taken from the board of ESB, asking if it could be waived, something that would be of assistance to consumers.

Senator Brennan asked for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to come into the House to discuss the water services programme, particularly the varied ways county councils respond to that programme, with some moving quickly and some delaying.

Senator Quinn pointed out that we do not have any air ambulance services. He also mentioned the increased fuel efficiency resulting from aeroplanes being towed to the runway, as Richard Branson pointed out, instead of taxiing. Passengers, however, may feel alarmed to feel themselves being towed.

Senator Mooney was in total agreement with Senator Ryan on what he thought were disgraceful awards made by UCD. He wants the Minister for Foreign Affairs to attend the House to discuss funding for Irish bodies in the US and the UK, which he is glad has been increased. Senator Coghlan referred to the lack of control over small airfields, as well as the plebiscite in his own county.

Senator Morrissey wishes the Minister for Transport to attend the House to discuss the culmination of the State Airports Bill. The legislation was to put many things in place which did not come about. When the Bill was debated here I spoke strongly about it and I knew that would be the outcome, although what has happened is quite amazing.

On foot of Senator Cummins's remarks, I would be pleased to liaise with the Garda Síochána. I have always done so, am in good standing and would like to do so.