Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I wish to respond to Senators Cummins, Ó Murchú and Bradford on a debate on Northern Ireland. I know some Members were at committee meetings but I informed the House yesterday that the Taoiseach will be present for that debate, which will take place on the first sitting day that falls as close as possible to the tenth anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

I welcome the publication of the Twenty-eighth Amendment of the Constitution Bill 2008. This will come to the House and for those Senators who this morning called for a debate on the Lisbon treaty, this Bill will provide an opportunity to express their opinions.

Some Senators, including the Leas-Chathaoirleach, Senator Burke, expressed concerns relating to safety at unmanned level crossings in light of the recent fatality that occurred. We all wish to pass on our condolences to the family concerned. A member of my family presided over level crossings for more than 40 years so I understand it is a serious commitment that requires attention seven days a week. I congratulate all those who have kept the level crossings of Ireland safe through the years and will pass the Senators' views on to the Minister.

Senator Coghlan highlighted for the House the tragedy of tourist attractions in the beautiful town of Killarney. Killarney is a shining example for the rest of Ireland of the tourism product that can be provided and I agree with the Senator on anything that can be done to assist with creating tourist attractions for places like Killarney. I will enquire to see when the legal services Bill will come to the House.

Senator Feargal Quinn gave a shining example of how important one cent coins are. Those of us old enough will know how hard it was to get them in the first place and I think Senator Norris agreed with this. If one does not mind one's pennies one will not have the pounds, as they used to say. This issue shows how we have progressed over the years.

Senators Buttimer and Bradford called for a debate on community life and I listened attentively to Senator Bradford's comments as he has huge experience and has spent almost 21 years in these Houses. I congratulate him on the service he has given because I know he is a young man with many years ahead of him. He expressed sentiments this morning on a serious matter and this House must have a lengthy debate on where society is going, how we have achieved what we have today and what our forefathers gave us. There is a considerable drift away from the type of upbringing we had and the younger generation must now meet a different challenge that starts at home and in school. I have no difficulty in setting aside time for this matter.

Senator Hannigan expressed his concern at the drop in income to the national Exchequer of €517 million for the first two months of this year. I am an optimistic person but if I had been asked about this in October, November or December I would have been pessimistic. However, one can now buy a three bedroom, semi-detached house within 50 miles of Dublin for €199,500; this is incredible value and now is the time to buy.