Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I am giving that commitment to the House.

Senators Hannigan and Boyle expressed serious concerns about pensions and yesterday I committed to a debate on the matter. In both Houses of Parliament we have given the great example as there is no retirement age for a Member of either House. The new committee to be charged with this responsibility can point to this leading by example.

There was a call for a debate on broadband, an important technology very much needed in the rural parts of Ireland where it is currently unavailable. I have no difficulty in having a debate on the matter within the next four weeks. Senators Ross, Coghlan and O'Malley called for an urgent debate on auctioneers' bills. I understand the relevant Bill will be in the House in 2008 and I will endeavour to have it initiated, as Senator Ross has correctly requested of me.

Senators O'Malley, Corrigan, Mullen, Bacik, Walsh and Hanafin called for a debate on the family, respect for family life and CURA. This was in support of Senator Quinn's call yesterday. I understand CURA received in excess of €600,000 from the Government last year. I have no difficulty in allowing time for such a debate. Next week's Private Members' motion is a Fianna Fáil motion but the Independents have this time for a motion in the following week. Perhaps they might show their generosity in this matter and we could take this issue under Private Members' time. If not, I will try to allow time when we begin the three-day sittings in November.

Senators Kelly and Buttimer called for a debate on transport and arts, sports and tourism, which I have no difficulty allowing time for. We all owe so much to the Gaelic Athletic Association, with the Cathaoirleach being a shining example in a successful career as a player and manager. If an impasse should prevail, the Minister may be available to mediate. I take the views of Senator Kelly on the matter, and anyone who has supported and played the native games will know it to be a serious issue and that support should be given.

Senators Ó Domhnaill, Doherty and others called for a debate in the House on the Irish language. We have a debate on the Irish language in every session. Senator Ó Domhnaill complimented the Minister, Deputy Ó Cuív, on all he has done for the language since becoming a Minister of State and Minister. I will allow time for this. Senators Corrigan and Hanafin called for a debate on mental health, which I have no difficulty in allowing time for also.

Senator Ellis made a very important point this morning, particularly relevant to Senators from rural Ireland. There are proposals by the HSE to close down services which are satisfactory in a rural area like Manorhamilton and move them to Sligo where there is no service currently available.