Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

I listened with interest to my colleague, Senator Donohoe, when he outlined his concerns about the infrastructural development of the city of Dublin. The Dublin City Business Association made a worthy and fine presentation to the Joint Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment this morning. When the representatives of the association expressed concerns about certain issues, they spoke positively about the development and economic growth of the city. They praised what has happened over recent years. Much of the progress that has been made can be attributed to the work of the Dublin City Business Association. I wanted to draw that to Senator Donohoe's attention.

I ask the Leader to contact the relevant authorities to ascertain whether a review of this country's water safety policies is being undertaken. As we approach the summer, I am reflecting on the death of a friend of my young son, who was tragically killed off the west coast last year. A number of people suffer tragedy throughout the summer months, which is when we usually try to enjoy water activities. There has been an increase in the use of motorised equipment, such as jet skis, on the water but we have failed to put appropriate regulations in place. I am not happy that a person can buy a jet ski or motorboat of any size, jump on it and do whatever they want with it, wherever they want. The Leader should ask the authorities to outline what they are doing to put in place the recommendations and proposals which are required.

I pay tribute to the hundreds of volunteer workers from various aid agencies and non-governmental organisations who undertake tremendous work, particularly in response to disasters like those in Burma and China. They are tackling huge challenges and obstacles in such areas. I understand that in Burma, approximately 34,000 people have died, approximately 28,000 people are missing and approximately 1.8 million people are homeless. Equally, a humanitarian crisis is developing in China as a result of the recent disaster there. If we allow man-made obstacles to disrupt the work of these tremendous aid agencies, something is radically wrong. There is a need for some kind of humanitarian rapid response unit. I propose that the leaders of all parties in the House should agree an all-party motion to allow aid agencies to carry out the humanitarian work that is required.