Maurice Hayes (Independent)

I would like to echo Senator Norris on the question of the nurses' dispute. It would not be helpful to have a debate on the matter, as industrial relations should be sorted out in the industrial relations arena. Debating them here would only make matters more difficult. That is not to say Members should not reflect the public's concern.

Speaking as a non-party Senator, I welcome that the parties seem determined to keep the matter from becoming electoral leverage. It would be unwise of the nurses' leadership to believe the election could be a useful factor, as the issue must be dealt with by whoever is in Government. I hope that we do not need to wait until the end of the week for those involved to return to the Labour Court and its proper procedures.

I have a pleasant interest in another matter this week in that the travel pass has been made available North and South. It is a great development and has been welcomed by senior citizens in Northern Ireland. I hope many senior citizens in the South will take the opportunity to travel to the North. It is an example of cross-Border co-operation and communication that we should welcome.