John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

——as was their being given specific protection. I take Senator Quinn's point that it required enormous courage on the part of the Senegalese girl to come forward. One hopes there are protections for girls in such circumstances. She was vindicated by the law but one can imagine other cases where a constitutional provision would be important. I agree with the proposition that the matter be debated in the House and we will try to arrange it. It is hoped to bring a proposed wording to Cabinet in the near future to dispose of the matter by referendum as quickly as possible, though I cannot anticipate how that will develop.

Senator O'Toole referred to low air fares, also mentioned by Senator Ormonde. It is unfortunate that attractive deals are offered during term time, meaning parents who wish to avail of them must take their children out of school rather than wait until school holidays. Senator O'Toole said that was the way the market worked. I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister and tell him the House wishes him to speak with the relevant travel agencies. I saw one offer last week of an apartment for €43 per night, offered by a well-known insurance company in Spain, which included breakfast and seemed extraordinarily attractive. Those of us of a certain age can remember when the standard excuse for not being in school was that a child was working in the garden. I am sure there are now other, more up to date excuses.

Senator O'Toole asked about the possibility of a break of a half an hour but it is very unlikely that Committee Stage of the Broadcasting (Amendment) Bill 2006 will conclude before 5 p.m. If it were to conclude before 4.30 p.m. we would certainly take a break of a half an hour. If that requires an amendment to the Order of Business I will propose it.

I will convey Senator Ryan's good wishes to the Fianna Fáil press office.