Liam Twomey (Fine Gael)

I am sorry. However, this issue should be debated because up to 20% of patients treated in Dublin hospitals are from the midlands, north east or the south east and the reason for this is that hospital services are not available in those regions. I would like the Minister to come to the House for a debate on that. Innuendo should not be spread, such as the reason cancer services must be removed from hospitals in the north west is they are not up to standard in comparison to Dublin hospitals. That is not true but if that charge stands up, the reason is lack of funding of hospitals outside the greater Dublin region. A clear debate is needed to prevent people spreading innuendo and making charges about doctors and the quality of service in regional hospitals.

Will the Leader consider notifying the House through a timetable outlining debates scheduled for the upcoming month or an entire session? Slots can be left free to discuss urgent issues but I have asked for a debate on the Morris report on Garda corruption in Donegal and, along with other Senators, for a serious debate on the fishing industry. Senators need to know when debates are scheduled. A more structured approach to our workload is needed in order that Members know three or four weeks or perhaps two or three months in advance when debates are scheduled thereby allowing them to plan their workload around them. I accept that is difficult from the Leader's point of view because significant administrative work is necessary. Perhaps the House should seek more resources in order that business can be better organised and Members know what is happening.