Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

The new Minister asked the Minister of State, Deputy Conor Lenihan, to bring forward a report on this matter and the publication of such a report will present an opportunity for such a debate.

Senators O'Toole and Hanafin called for a debate on the up-to-date position on stem cell research, for which I have no difficulty in setting aside time.

Senator McFadden, my constituency colleague, highlighted the difficulties in terms of turbary rights experienced particularly by people in the midlands and the challenges facing generations of turf cutting families in the midlands. I have good news for the Senator, namely, that the slane turf cutters, which are the family turf cutters, are not included in the regulations. Those of us who were reared in the 1950s, when turf was the only means of fuel, and who spent time on the bogs of Ireland can return to traditional ways. As the Senator is aware, sausage turf-cutting is not allowed, but she can tell all her friends and all those who voted for us 12 months ago that there is good news from Senator Cassidy that the old slane turf cutting is allowed——