Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

In my lifetime it is unprecedented anyway. I understand the Minister for Finance is out of the country but when possible I will ask him for an urgent debate and to update the House at the very earliest opportunity. If the Minister was in the country now I would endeavour for such a debate to take place tomorrow. It is of the utmost importance that we hear from the Minister himself on this issue and I know he will be only too willing to come to address the House on the matter.

Senator Mary White called for a debate on the Government's report on Irish prisoners abroad, particularly the concerns in this area. My colleague, neighbour and friend, Mr. Chris Flood, was chosen by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Dermot Ahern, to bring this report to the attention of the House. I have no difficulty in allowing time for this debate in the House and I thank Senator White for bringing it to our attention. The Senator quoted some strong views of Bishop Hegarty.

Senators Hannigan and Jim Walsh called for a debate to update the broadband position. Those Senators who are members of the committee responsible for enterprise, trade and small business have a serious duty to bring this before that committee, highlighting it and having it debated. They should bring ComReg before the committee urgently to discuss the matter.

As Senator Hannigan's colleague, Deputy Penrose, is the chairman, perhaps the Senator could use his good influence to have the Deputy prioritise this very serious issue, which particularly affects the rural parts of our constituency of Meath West. People want an equal opportunity and it is not just the folk in the city who will have an opportunity for employment. Rural Ireland urgently needs quality broadband.