Cecilia Keaveney (Fianna Fail)

I was asking that this time around, the Leader of the House might bring it to the attention of the new Taoiseach that the House has an interest in the marine and that we would like all matters related to it consolidated under one Minister. The Minister for Transport should come to the House in the near future to discuss this issue, which is of particular interest to me.

I wish to acknowledge the extremely significant events of yesterday. Anybody with an awareness of the history of this island could not have imagined a decade ago the variety of people who stood yesterday on the site of the Battle of the Boyne, with the Taoiseach leading the welcome to communities from throughout the island. When the Taoiseach-elect, Deputy Brian Cowen, is in situ, I ask that the Leader invite him to the House as soon as possible for a discussion on how to consolidate the continuing efforts to build relations between the peoples of this island. The Taoiseach made the point that the manner in which we respect the views of others, particularly minorities, will determine what life is like for the citizens of this island in the coming years. We generally consider the issue of accommodating minorities as one that is relevant to Northern Ireland. However, there are other minorities on this island and we must find some way of embracing the opportunities and challenges this presents. Our discussion with the new Taoiseach should consider the links — cross-Border, cross-community, in education and so on — that will facilitate the growing mutual respect among all the peoples on this island that was fostered by the Taoiseach.

I join in the good wishes extended to the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Deputy Brennan, on his decision to step down from office. I knew him well in his role as Government Chief Whip when I was a Member of the other House. He has done much good work in the areas of arts and tourism. I agree with Senator Prendergast that the Arts Council must continue to develop its role in the future. However, we must acknowledge that the significant increases in funding for the Arts Council are yielding results.