John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I echo the sentiments of my colleague, Senator Bradford, concerning the emerging food shortages that have come to light across the globe in recent weeks. When does the Deputy Leader envisage we will have a discussion on the World Trade Organisation talks? It was supposed to happen during the week of the former President Hillery's funeral. I was hoping the debate would take place this week but I earnestly request that it should occur next week at the latest.

I also join Senator Fitzgerald and others who have sought a debate on the health service. One aspect of the service which clearly did work was the community drugs scheme, yet it seems appalling that the scheme is on the verge of collapse. The Government and the Health Service Executive in particular have not done sufficient work to try to resolve the matter before that collapse comes about. The discussion on the health service should include the emerging problem with general practitioner numbers. Yesterday, I heard an astonishing statistic that 50% of GPs in this country are due to retire within the next ten years and we do not have sufficient places for medical students to fill these positions.

I join Senators O'Sullivan and Keaveney in wishing to know when the Student Support Bill will come to the House. I understand it is being taken on Second Stage in the Lower House at the moment. Senator O'Sullivan referred to the issue of accommodation. Eight months ago a commitment was given by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to establish a task force on accommodation for third level students, but it has not yet been acted upon. Perhaps the Deputy Leader will divulge when it will be.