Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Fitzgerald and Norris expressed their gratitude on my responding to their request for an all-party motion regarding Ingrid Betancourt, a former member of the National Senate of Colombia and a candidate for that country's Presidency. I thank the other leaders and the Minister for Foreign Affairs and his Department for their co-operation in respect of this matter.

Senators Fitzgerald and Ó Murchú referred to sentencing and the inconsistencies that arise in some cases. I agree with the sentiments expressed and we will examine this matter in the context of a debate on justice in the early part of the new year.

Senator Fitzgerald also expressed concerns regarding the sending of Irish troops to Chad, particularly in the context of their safety. The situation in that country is changing on a daily basis. I will pass on the Senator's concerns to the Minister.

Senators O'Toole, Coghlan and O'Reilly referred to water charges, the control of water supplies and the costs relating thereto and requested a debate on these various issues. I have no difficulty in arranging time for such a debate.

Senators Hannigan, Ross, Regan, Kelly and Buttimer expressed their views on the report published by the ESRI. Senator Hannigan congratulated Senator Mary White on the success she has had in business and the fact that she employs 100 people in Navan in the constituency of Meath West. I fully agree with the Senator's sentiments in that regard. Several Members also referred to observations from FÁS on competitiveness, people remaining in business, the retention of jobs and the plight of low income earners. An individual interviewed on RTE radio this morning in respect of the ESRI's report expressed concern that jobs might be lost on foot of increases in the rate of low incomes. We all support the concept of a decent wage for a decent job. We will have a lengthy debate on this matter early in the new year and I hope the Minister for Finance will be present for it.

Senator McFadden inquired about the primary care unit for Athlone. I will try to obtain an update on that matter from the Minister. I am sure the Senator will join me in congratulating Trevor O'Callaghan and the staff at Mullingar Regional Hospital on the announcement yesterday that their facility is the most cost-efficient hospital in Ireland. That is a wonderful achievement and I congratulate everyone involved.