Fiona O'Malley (Progressive Democrats)

I echo Senator O'Toole's request for the Taoiseach to visit the House so that we have an opportunity to listen to his views as he retires and, as the Senator stated, to pay tribute to the service he has provided on behalf of the Irish people for such an extended period.

I also request a debate on the partnership talks. Often people criticise Parliament for not having a relevance. We might be provided with the opportunity to discuss our concerns here. I accept that when one is going into negotiations one often likes to keep one's cards close to one's chest but it would afford us the opportunity to express views, particularly to the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, Deputy Cowen, as he prepares to go into the partnership talks.

I also request a debate on the question of prisons. As we seek to modernise our prisons system, a debate on the purpose of prisons and whether we are serving those needs is required. In my previous constituency an institution for young offenders was closed down. In that regard, we need to know there will be enough rehabilitation opportunities in places of incarceration and what is their purpose. That is why I request a debate on prisons.

I also echo the request from Senators Boyle and O'Toole for a debate on Tibet. As we prepare to go to the Olympic Games, it is appropriate that we in the Seanad should make known our views on the matter.