Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

She wanted a debate on tax harmony and suggested various speakers to address this. If speakers are not to be members of the Dáil or the Seanad, that is a matter for the CPP, I understand. As a member of the CPP, Senator O'Malley can put that suggestion before the committee. She will get considerable support as it is a good idea.

As regards No. 21 on the Order Paper, dealing with the issue of human trafficking, I certainly support the calls from Senators Norris and Mullen for a debate on that immediately if we can get agreement with party leaders at our next meeting. I also agree with the sentiments expressed by Senator Norris on litter wardens, increased litter fines and how important this is for the whole island as well as the beautiful city of Dublin. Senators Doherty, Keaveney and Ó Domhnaill called for Deputy Mícheál Martin, as Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to address the Seanad in a debate on Donegal in particular. With the House's permission, I should like to include the role of the IDA — and what it does or is not doing, in some cases — in this half-day debate that we will arrange with the agreement of the House. Senator Healy Eames called for a debate about regional development and perhaps that might be included under this heading when the Minister comes to the House. Senator Mary White also asked for this debate.

I congratulate all colleagues whom the Taoiseach appointed today, in particular Senator White, who has done extraordinarily good work in the area to which she has been appointed today, namely children and senior citizens. I wish her well and look forward to working with her.

Senators Mullen and Ó Domhnaill proposed the House send its greetings and best wishes to our Olympians who are in Shanghai. Some of us have had the pleasure of visiting that most beautiful city in the vast country of China. It is certainly the career highlight of the 142 athletes concerned and everyone who has supported them. Ireland can take a bow for its leadership in supporting people with special needs. We wish them well from all sides of the House.

Senators Jim Walsh and John Paul Phelan addressed the House on the serious challenge in relation to pensions. I understand that a Green Paper is to be published on this subject by the end of the year and I certainly will allow time in the House for a debate when it comes before us.

Senator Ivor Callely expressed serious concern on behalf of the pharmacists about events that are proposed to occur over the next few days. I shall certainly pass on his views to the Minister after the Order of Business.

Senators Paudie Coffey, Cecilia Keaveney and Brian Ó Domhnaill made a worthwhile proposal that we have a discussion on school transport and catchment areas. Senator Coffey was correct in stating that the catchment areas were last decided in the late 1960s. Since then the population has grown and changed considerably. I understand that consideration of this issue is at an advanced stage within the Department. It is the responsibility of the Minister of State, Deputy Seán Haughey, and I have no difficulty with requesting him to come to the House to discuss this issue and listen to the concerns of Senators so that they may be addressed.

Senator John Hanafin expressed his views on Seanad reform. This is a serious challenge for all Senators, and we will consider the issue in the future.

Senator Larry Butler requested a debate on local government. A Green Paper is to be published on this subject in January, so I suggest we delay this debate for two months so that we can have a half-day debate on the Green Paper.

Senator Michael McCarthy, whose views I respect as he is a great colleague in Seanad Éireann, requested a debate on environment and local needs, especially with regard to rural development. Those of us who are fortunate enough to have been born, bred and reared to represent the people should do everything we can to ensure local needs are considered. We must represent the people who elected us to this House without being dictated to by any force that interferes with the quality of life we enjoy in our communities.

Senator John Paul Phelan requested a debate on agriculture. I will endeavour to allow this to take place over the next three to four weeks.

Senator Brendan Ryan suggested that the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Gormley, come to the House to discuss the requirements of the city of Dublin over the next 25 to 30 years. That is a worthwhile suggestion, and I will allocate time for this purpose. As the Senator's party is responsible for Private Members' business next week, if the Senator wishes to deal with this urgently, he might consult his colleagues about having the discussion during this time. Senator Alex White can inform us of the decision in this regard later in the week. Otherwise, it may take three to fourweeks.

Senator Jerry Buttimer called for a debate on education. I have no difficulty with this taking place over the next month or so.