John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I am sure it will be delighted to hear them. Senators Ryan, Scanlon and Glynn raised the grievances of nurses. There is no conflict between the Taoiseach and the Minister for Health and Children and the Government is at one on the issue. The Government is bound by social partnership and agreements made under it so there is no room for discretion in the matter. I am not aware of things having been done outside benchmarking and the Labour Court recommended it be resolved within benchmarking. I see no reason, however, we cannot debate the matter and I am sure the Minister will agree to come into the House to do so.

Senator Ryan referred to the situation in Palestine, where there is effectively a civil war. We hope Hamas and Fatah will agree a modus operandi going forward but that may be hoping for too much. However, we will keep the situation to the forefront of this House. The Senator also raised No. 2. It is unlikely it will terminate because to do so would require a motion to be tabled to that effect by 1 p.m. but I will clarify the matter.

Senators Mansergh and Norris spoke about the effect of global warming on the water supply. Senator Mansergh made a good point about water supply, an essential service. A number of places, not on very high ground, have experienced serious service disruptions. We are taking so much out of the River Liffey at present that the sustainability of the river is in doubt. We must find the additional water services for the extra 90,000 houses we build each year. My own view, not supported widely, is that water should be taken from the Shannon. I suggested that 20 years ago and the county engineer in Kildare told me it could not be done. A report then came out stating it could be done. We have a wayleave all along the canal and could bring a pipe to Dublin without having to acquire land. I do not, therefore, see why it cannot be done. We are not short of water but have plenty.