Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I wish to be associated with the tributes paid to the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Deputy Séamus Brennan, who will retire today. The Minister played a positive and constructive role in politics and was always amenable to accepting suggestions made by the Opposition. Several years ago, for example, he accepted my proposal to change the term "old age pension" to "State pension". While it may not have been an issue of great significance, it demonstrated his ability to listen to Opposition voices. I hope he enjoys many more years in other political roles.

I ask the Leader to reflect again on the need for an urgent debate on the World Trade Organisation talks. In recent days, Commissioner Mandelson has issued a further unhelpful statement in which he underplayed what he is determined to do to Irish agriculture. Not only is he the greatest threat to the passing of the referendum on the Lisbon treaty, he is also a major threat to the future of Irish agriculture and tens of thousands of jobs. Given that "veto" is the only word he understands, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, whether Deputy Mary Coughlan or her successor, must indicate his or her willingness to stop the destructive Mandelson proposals.

I agree with the suggestion made by several speakers, including Senator Buttimer, that the new Taoiseach be invited to the House to outline his policies on a broad range of issues. Senator Fitzgerald noted the issues facing the Government. The Taoiseach, Deputy Bertie Ahern, made a valedictory address to the House several weeks ago. It would be interesting and informative if the new Taoiseach were to come to the House at the earliest possible date to outline his proposals and policies. I ask the Leader to raise the issue at the Committee on Procedure and Privileges.