Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Henry suggested flood waters may affect the water supply. She also spoke about the lack of educational psychological services in schools. She said the school principal regarded the young woman who was recently murdered as a disruptive child who needed special help, which she did not receive. We will have to have a debate on that matter. I understand not enough educational psychologists come through the system annually.

I agree with Senator Dooley that we should have a debate on housing. The impulse behind the affordable housing scheme is commendable but it must be brought up to date in terms of money. That is what is wrong with it. Senator McHugh said that investing in infrastructure in the west will ease the difficulties of the east. We have his report for consultation. Senator Glynn supported Senator Norris with regard to the letter about disability payments to mental health patients.

Senator Quinn referred to the Trinity report. I found the report's conclusions difficult to understand. The report dealt mainly with people from middle class homes and found that young people were being sent to school without having any breakfast. That is clearly an issue of parenting, not means. It is extremely odd that parents would not give food to their children. I cannot understand it. I wonder about the research. I would like to read the report and examine the basis for it. If the families are well off, there is no need for the State to intervene because they can afford to feed their children. The Senator, however, made the point that the family that eats together stays together. It would be better off for doing so. The Senator also mentioned the road network in France, where the lines at the sides of the road are clearly marked.

Senator Jim Walsh asked for a debate on the joint committee on justice report, which is currently with the Government. He also raised the kamikaze attitude, as he described it, of certain nursing staff towards the new maternity hospital in Cork and sought a debate on partnership in that context.