Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senator Doherty spoke about a debate which is taking place this evening during Private Members' Business. We all support the call for the marine rescue co-ordination centres in Malin Head and Valentia to be left where they are and for their facilities to be improved. The Senator also called for the Minister for State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Deputy Noel Ahern, to come to the House to discuss the requirements of the OPW. Living with the spirit of the programme for Government with colleagues in the Green Party and the Progressive Democrats Party, we can address all the issues so that the State service can play its part in the same way the private sector is expected to do.

Senator Buttimer called for a debate on the health service. I have no difficulty with this taking place. Senator Kelly called for a debate on FÁS and mature students. Up to 60% of all those at work today will have to be retrained by 2020 and FÁS has been given the task of carrying out this work. I agree with the sentiments expressed by the Senator and have no difficulty with a debate on the issue in the House.

I also support Senator Buttimer's call for an update on the mid-western development plan and Shannon Airport services. I promised that we would have a debate on tourism and I hope that will take place in the next two to three weeks.

Senator Donohoe called for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to come to the House to explain his Department's expenditure on innovation and research and those areas that will create jobs in future. I certainly have no difficulty in having the Minister come to the House for this.

Senator Coghlan made a very strong statement about Killarney House. If he wishes to table a motion for Private Members' business, he may do so. He may also wish to put it forward as a matter for the Adjournment. Otherwise we will try how we can facilitate the Senator's request.

Senator McFadden spoke about young people being denied access to dental care. I can make inquiries of the Minister for Health and Children about this issue and I will come back to the Senator in the next few days.