Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Bannon stated there was a lack of funding for the disabled person's grant and I agree with him. It is more the slowness with which the matter is approached rather than the money.

Senator Mansergh said the PIAB has been a catalyst for lower insurance costs and I agree with him. He is very puzzled by the Basque peace process and the vote in Europe. Senator Norris referred to the streets in Dublin and he asked for debates on Tibet and on climate change. He referred to the utter complacency which he alleges exists about climate change. He referred to the report by Sir Nicholas Stern and how Al Gore has been commissioned to awaken the United States to the dangers of global warming.

Senator Ormonde asked for a discussion on PIAB and she referred to the debate on RTE Radio 1 yesterday. She also asked for a debate on the future of Europe in light of the accession of Bulgaria and Romania. It is a subject worthy of debate.

Senator Phelan asked for a debate on the primary school medical examination. He supported Senator O'Toole's request for a debate on the recent report on global warming. He referred to the change in the structure of the curriculum for Irish in the leaving certificate.

I think Senator Browne is the only fireworks in Carlow. I thought he was the real fireworks in Carlow. I do not know why all the fireworks went to Carlow because they have definitely gone somewhere.