Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

I join in the expression of good wishes to the Taoiseach, Deputy Cowen and his Ministers. In light of the current international financial crisis and what has happened in the past couple of hours, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. This is what the Taoiseach is faced with in the first 24 hours of his Cabinet. However, he has assembled a wealth of knowledge, experience, ability, youth and a fresh input. Like others I wish him well. They will have an opportunity to prove themselves in the difficult times ahead.

I ask the Leader to arrange a briefing document for me on the services emanating from the Central Mental Hospital. I also intend to raise the issue on the Adjournment. I would like to know which services, Departments and authorities have an interest there. It is my understanding that it is not solely the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, but that the Departments of Education and Science and Health and Children and the Health Service Executive are also involved. While I understand there is a desire to move services by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform to the new prison site, I would not favour moving services by the other Departments or the HSE. I seek clarification on this issue.

I join with other Senators in lending our support and solidarity to the people of Burma as they have experienced a terrible disaster. I call on all authorities to ensure that the aid agencies who are trying to assist are given an easy passage. We should leave no stone unturned.