Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators O'Donovan, Glynn, Carty, McCarthy, Coghlan and Cummins expressed serious concerns regarding the unfair treatment of Irish fishermen. Our experienced colleague, the deputy leader of the Fianna Fáil Party in the House, Senator O'Donovan, cited an example. I will arrange an urgent debate on this matter and will contact the Minister's office as soon as the Order of Business concludes.

Senators Donohoe and Twomey called for an more time to discuss the Dublin Transport Authority Bill 2008. The debate commences at 7 p.m. and is open-ended. I will discuss with the party leaders the arrangements for the Remaining Stages on the conclusion of Second Stage. All Senators who wish to speak on Second Stage of this most important Bill may do so tonight. The debate will not be stifled. The Bill will go to the Other House and return to the Seanad in five or six weeks if amendments are made in the Dáil.

Senators Corrigan and Norris cited alarming statistics on missing children and called for an urgent debate on the issue. I am agreeable to holding such a debate.

Senator Regan called for a debate on the Road Transport Act 1932, particularly on the licensing of buses. I have no difficulty in making time available for such a debate.

Senator de Búrca welcomed the Taoiseach's visit to the House tomorrow. As it will be his final visit to the Seanad, I would like all available Senators to attend tomorrow at 2 p.m. to show their appreciation for everything the Taoiseach has achieved since taking office. The Taoiseach will also set out his views on the Lisbon treaty and Good Friday Agreement. Senator de Búrca's constituency colleague, the Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach, Deputy Dick Roche, will be in the House in a few minutes to discuss the Lisbon treaty.

Regarding the matters brought to my attention by Senators Healy-Eames I will try to respond to the request made of me. Like Senator Mary White, I am always impressed by the openness, frankness and helpfulness of the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Harney, when she appears before us, for example, in facilitating Senators' requests to amend the Order of Business to extend yesterday's question and answer session. Yesterday's debate was an enlightening experience. With each visit by the Minister to the House, I become more confident that problems in the Health Service Executive are being addressed. Please God, they will be successfully resolved but it behoves all of us to assist the Minister in any way we can. Her contribution last night was uplifting and gives us all great confidence and hope that she will successfully overcome the challenge she has accepted.