Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

The Senator may not believe the statistics but I do. It is wonderful that we are aware of the number of people per hospital who are awaiting admission to wards. We did not have that information in the past and, in my view, it is a good idea that it be provided.

I agree with Senator Fitzgerald. The Minister stated that she is conducting an audit in respect of entry to second level schools. When that audit is completed, she will come before the House to discuss the matter. That should, perhaps, bring an end to spurious comments in respect of the matter.

Senator Henry sought a debate on the children's hospital. She also referred to the use of folic acid to fortify all breads and flours. Women who take this supplement during pregnancy lessen the chance of their babies being born with spina bifida or anencephaly, which are both terrible. The Senator inquired why it will take a year for the findings of the group investigating this matter to emerge.

Senator Jim Walsh referred to car rental companies and requested debates on competition and smoking among 14 to 17 year olds.

Senator Cummins referred to age identity cards for young people.

Senator Bannon sought an urgent debate on the electoral register. There will be an opportunity to discuss that matter on Thursday when the House debates the Electoral (Amendment) Bill. The Bill is returning from the Dáil, which made some amendments to it. The Senator may make known his views on the matter at that point. The Senator stated that there are 10% more names on the register than there are people. I would prefer if people's names were left on the register. I was alarmed to discover that if people move house, their names are removed from the register and might not be added to it at the new addresses to which they move. A person can vote only once, but his or her name can appear ten times on the register.