Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Leyden also spoke about BUPA and made a point about property rights and the constitutionality of the proposal by the Minister for Health and Children. To answer the question asked by Senator Coghlan, the property services regulatory authority Bill is on the C list and will be printed in 2007.

Senator Moylan also raised the issue of flooding. We share the River Shannon, as do other Senators. He also raised the issue of beef exports to Russia. If it fails we will lose a major lucrative market.

Senator Bradford has left to take part in a radio programme. I can imagine the low spirits and sadness in Fermoy, the town in which he lives. If something could still be done to accommodate BUPA I hope it is done. Senator Mansergh also spoke about BUPA.

Senator John Paul Phelan raised an interesting matter regarding the offer of a loan made to him on the basis he was over 18 and in steady employment. He does not like the idea of being offered €9,000 on the basis that all he needs do to receive it is hold out his hand. The day of payment will arrive.

Senator White stated Fianna Fáil Senators should campaign for better conditions for councillors. All Senators do so. Like Senator Leyden, she raised the pension arrangements she wants and stated she would not lose sight of that goal. Who would not be a county councillor? Reading today's newspaper would cause one's eyes to go out on sticks.

Senator Paddy Burke called for a relief fund from the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government for flooding areas. He also raised the issue of below-cost selling of alcohol. I see large one page advertisements from Tesco and Dunnes Stores. It is all right for people to have a drink in their homes, but the problem arises with drinking elsewhere and then going on the roads. I intend to give a bottle of whiskey to people and I hope it will be well-appreciated but drunk within their houses.