John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I concur fully with Senator MacSharry's last point. Reports are available for Members in hard-copy format in the Oireachtas Library, but there is a scandalous waste of paper in that regard. I also agree with previous speakers who have sought a debate on the health service. I hope the Government will accede to the request for an hour to discuss it today, with particular emphasis on the siting of the new national children's hospital. The issue was raised before Christmas by a number of Senators, including myself. We should have a full discussion on the reasons behind the decision that was taken. People should be allowed to express their views on the matter in the Chamber.

Senator Ryan requested a debate on the national development plan, with particular emphasis on infrastructure and broadband. Last week, we saw that the Government has abandoned the rural broadband scheme, so it would be opportune to know what its future plans are in this regard. What has been promised up to now has not been delivered upon by the Government. Many Senators in rural areas are in a similar position to me and know that businesses cannot get broadband connections. Last week, I was alarmed to learn that the port of Waterford — a few miles from where I live in Kilkenny — does not have broadband connectivity. That is a shocking situation. If that is the case in south County Kilkenny, I am sure a similar situation exists across the country.

The Leader should ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to attend the House to explain his recent announcement on funding for local roads. He has announced a 6% or 7% increase in funding for local authorities for local roads. On the face of it, that would be welcome were it not for the fact that last year the cost of road-building materials increased 40%. In real terms therefore it is a huge decrease in terms of what work will be carried out on local roads around the country, despite the razzmatazz surrounding the Minister's recent announcement. He should attend the House to discuss that issue.