Camillus Glynn (Fianna Fail)

Efforts have been made, including those of Fianna Fáil's spokesperson in this House, Senator Feeney, to resolve the difficulties that face the country in respect of the pharmacy issue. It is important that both sides should endeavour to traverse the middle ground. Whenever a dispute exists, the middle ground is always safe ground for people to head towards because it is where resolutions are to be found. Even at this late stage, common sense should prevail on both sides and there should be a meeting of minds in an endeavour to resolve this difficulty.

Last week I raised a matter in the House which was brought home to me again a few days ago when I attended a funeral in County Roscommon. A brother-in-law of my wife told me he had received a letter from a person who advised him that he had been nominated as a benefactor in a will and that the authors sought his bank account number and other details. I understand from my inquiries that this practice is widespread and I raised the issue in the House last week. I am deeply concerned because while many people would be wise to such a scam, unfortunately some people in the community take the bait and consequentially are swindled out of their hard-earned money. Something must be done as this has been ongoing for some time. I have taken the opportunity to ring one of those involved because, as I noted last week, I received such a message myself. However a debate on this subject is required. This matter should be brought centre stage because it is not going away and must be tackled and dealt with.

The other matter I wish to raise is that some time ago, and not for the first time, concern was expressed in this House regarding the number of accidents involving non-insured cars. While a debate was held on this matter in the previous Seanad, another would be timely because this issue remains outstanding and is not going away.