Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I can accede to the request to invite the Minister of State at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Conor Lenihan, to discuss immigration, and for the Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Hoctor, to attend to discuss ageism. I will also attempt to meet Senator Norris's request for a debate on Cuba.

Senator Ó Domhnaill wants the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to come to the House for a debate. That is a timely request. This House has always had full and thorough discussions with the Minister's Department.

Senator Buttimer called for a debate on the national development plan. The Government side would welcome such a debate with open arms because it would be an opportunity to let our constituents know about the transformation which has taken place over the past ten years. We could also find out where we will be going in the next five years. Some €43 billion, or 5.5% of GDP, will be invested during that period in major infrastructure including roads, sewerage and water services and broadband.