Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

They must ask the establishment what it will do about this matter. Given that Senator Ellis has represented the people of County Leitrim in the Dáil and the Seanad for almost three decades, this request is not being made by a first-timer. It is being made on behalf of the people of County Leitrim. I want to know what can be done in the interests of fairness. Were any other county left without Dáil representation, we would hear more about the situation. How do the political parties view the proposal? The Government side and Fianna Fáil in particular will not be found wanting if other parties are agreeable.

Senator Kelly made known his strong opinions regarding his experience of making freedom of information requests to the HSE. His complaint was serious and the Minister for Health and Children has a responsibility to ensure such does not recur. The Senator should be assisted in acquiring information, particularly given that it was already in the public domain in another form. That an elected Member of the Upper House of the Oireachtas was denied information is a serious matter. Perhaps the Minister and Professor Drumm should ensure such does not recur. Senator Kelly's proposal regarding management performance and an audit of State agencies is worthwhile. Perhaps it could be formally made during next Wednesday's debate.

Senator Twomey made a proposal on financial matters and the National Treasury Management Agency in particular. These and negative equity issues can be debated next Wednesday when the Minister for Finance is in attendance.

Senator Ross called for an urgent debate on the role of FÁS during the next four years, given its budget of €70 million in respect of the special responsibility with which it has been charged, namely, upskilling 60% of the workforce between now and 2020. The challenge is a serious one and immediate action must be taken. Any regulation that interferes with anyone who loses his or her job by, for example, requiring that he or she be unemployed for the six months prior to upskilling must be removed. Given that the employers of people in their 30s, 40s or 50s who want to avail of courses may not be in a financial position to pay the 25% requirement, FÁS should provide 100% of the funding. Surely the €70 million has been allocated to upskill people to face tomorrow's challenges. In the national development plan, in excess of €4 billion has been allocated up to 2020. We want immediate action and assistance to be given to everyone experiencing an employment difficulty. I would have no difficulty in setting aside time to debate this matter.

Senator Corrigan welcomed the announcement by the Minister of State, Deputy Moloney, of €50 million in respect of disability services. I will determine whether the House can set aside one hour before the summer recess to discuss with the Minister of State his proposals regarding the distribution of that money. Senator Corrigan also referred to the opinions expressed by the DPP on sexual assault cases and adults vulnerable to assault. I will convey her strong remarks to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.