Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Perhaps even the intimate conversations going on this morning while Senator Paschal Donohoe was speaking were recorded. Who knows.

Senator Coffey raised the matter of the serious challenge facing Waterford Crystal. I thank the Senator for his co-operation and understanding yesterday and thank the Cathaoirleach for ensuring the Senator will be able to express his views in an Adjournment debate on the conclusion of the debate on the Broadcasting Bill today. He will be able to express the serious concerns of the people of the south east at that time.

Senators Glynn and Coffey expressed strong views on the issue of child obesity. The Minister of State with responsibility for that area is Deputy Mary Wallace, a former Senator. We will seek her presence in the House to discuss this serious challenge facing children. Senator Mary White called for a debate on the 1,000 Irish prisoners abroad. I will try to arrange a date for that debate.

Senator Glynn for a long time has been seeking a debate on fish stocks. I am endeavouring to have that debate take place before the summer recess. This is a serious challenge for Westmeath, the lakes county, in particular and for all the lakes in the midlands area where fish stocks are so important for tourism. This issue will be on our calendar before the summer recess. The Senator also called for debate on local government issues and the Green Paper. I suggest we should wait another month or so for that debate when the new local authority constituency boundaries are announced.

Senator Donohoe called for a debate on the carers' strategy. I said previously that all carers should get a gold medal for the great work they do. There is no more worthy call than one for a debate on carers. I have no difficulty in trying to arrange this and ensure it will happen.

The Senator also pointed out that one of the great challenges facing the country is competitiveness. We can discuss this issue in debate on the economy. The issue is a great challenge to the social partners who are trying to get agreement for another three or four-year period. I wish them well. I have no difficulty with arranging a debate on this issue as soon as possible.

Senator Prendergast highlighted the success of the drugs rehabilitation programme for 12 young people. Some Senators are attending a sub-committee this morning that will deal with serious problems such as drug abuse and suicide, etc. I wish that sub-committee well.

Senator Mullen asked that the Dalai Lama be invited to the House. That is a matter for the Committee on Procedure and Privileges which I know intends to discuss the issue shortly. He also called for a debate on time wasting.