Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Kelly, O'Reilly and Callely referred to supports for older people, particularly in the context of the festive season. Senator Callely has a great deal of experience in this area and I compliment him on raising the matter.

Senator Norris referred to No. 8 on the Order Paper. I will examine the matter and bring it to the attention of the other leaders at our next meeting.

Senators Ormonde, Hanafin, Doherty and Bacik expressed their concerns about rendition, which was debated by the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs yesterday. As Senators are aware, the fastest way of getting answers to difficult questions is often to use the committee system. A witness can be called to a joint committee at a week's notice, with the permission of the Chairman of the committee. I will try to facilitate a discussion of the matter. If I cannot arrange such a debate, perhaps one of the Opposition parties will consider devoting their Private Members' time to the matter. It can be discussed at the next meeting of the leaders of the groups.

Senators Doherty and Bradford called for a debate on life on rural Ireland to be arranged as a matter of urgency, in the context of the closure of post offices. Some village post offices are closing because nobody in the area is willing to take over the business. An Post has a duty to put post boxes in place, at least, when post offices close.