Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I welcome Kate Egan of "Oireachtas Report" to the Press Gallery. It is lovely to see a member of the press attend the proceedings of the House.

Senators Twomey, Mullen, Ross, Coghlan, Healy Eames, Ellis, Corrigan and Fitzgerald expressed their views on holding a debate with the Minister for Education and Science. The Minister will attend the House on Thursday, 21 February for a wide ranging debate on special needs. I am sure that will exercise the minds of Senators to have their contributions prepared regarding the serious concerns we all have about special needs.

In regard to the Health Service Executive, I gave my word yesterday that I will request a meeting with the Minister for Health and Children. Senator Callely noted that she will meet the HSE and pharmacists' representatives today. It would be opportune once these meetings are concluded to have the Minister attend the Seanad. I will update the House on the matter next Tuesday.

Senators Twomey and McDonald spoke about the people of coastal areas of County Wexford and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Gormley, will attend the House in the next two weeks. I understand he is ill today and therefore unable to attend for statements on the national waste strategy. However, he has expressed interest in returning for the conclusion of these statements and I will try to arrange time to discuss the issue raised by the Senators.

Senator Quinn criticised the unnecessary use of what we know as the paper trail. I see no reason Members cannot be given the option of avoiding a paper trail through technology.

Senators Quinn, Ó Murchú and Norris expressed their views on current activities in China, which is a rapidly changing country. The Olympics are a highlight for those of us who were involved in athletics. The greatest gift one can give one's body is fitness. As someone who participated quite successfully in the community games, of which Senator McFadden will be aware, I look forward to the Olympics.