Paschal Donohoe (Fine Gael)

I support the calls made for a debate on data retention policies. The recent incident in which the Irish Blood Transfusion Service lost a large amount of information, which will cause much distress to many, indicates a new political issue is emerging regarding how we look after our citizens' information.

In a matter of weeks, the Government will introduce, through EU directive, a regulation that will require the retention of all e-mails sent over the previous three years. This is alongside the most stringent policies regarding mobile telephone calls, telecommunications and so on.

While there is a need for such information to help with security issues and criminal behaviour, there is a clear balance between broader issues of how we look after the privacy of our citizens and the State's ability to do that well.

I also call for a debate on arts policy and how we fund our national and local artistic organisations. On yesterday's Order of Business Senator Ó Murchú made this point regarding another request I had with the Cathaoirleach. I respect the Cathaoirleach's decision to rule it out of order. Nonetheless, many artistic organisations are experiencing changes in the funding they are receiving to provide entertainment and art to their communities. They provide great comfort and joy to many. We are entitled to discuss the changes that are taking place and give our view as a House of the Oireachtas into what can be done better.