Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Donohoe, Callely and Norris all called for a debate on Transport 21, particularly concerning future developments and the continued large-scale investment which is driving the economy at present. I will ask the Minister for Transport to attend the House for such debate as soon as possible and definitely before the summer recess.

Senators Frances Fitzgerald, Maria Corrigan and Déirdre de Búrca called for a special debate on women in politics, which is opportune. I congratulate my colleague from County Meath, the Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Mary Wallace, on her re-appointment as Minister of State yesterday. She is a neighbour and colleague of Senator Hannigan and of mine.

We want to encourage as many women as possible to get involved in politics, especially young ladies, but it is not that easy because the electorate decides who is elected. In the 2002 general election there were seven candidates in County Westmeath; four were ladies and three were men. However, the three men were elected which shows it is entirely up to the electorate. Those of us working in the political system should encourage as many ladies as possible to get involved. It is a tough, hard life, it is not easy and it may not be a very attractive option.

I thank all those ladies who have made such a great contribution to politics, including all the great standard bearers from Countess Markievicz and Ms Maud Gonne to Ms Máire Geoghegan-Quinn and Deputy Mary Harney. We have had tremendous women involved in Irish politics.