Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

We face a challenge in respect of our competitiveness. I stated on many previous occasions that wage costs must be monitored. The social partners have dealt with that matter and made recommendations, which I hope the unions will accept.

Senators O'Toole, Norris and McFadden referred to Lough Ree and the need to revisit the Shannon River Council Bill. The late Seán Doherty, may the Lord have mercy on him, was Chairman of the relevant committee at the time and was instrumental in dealing with this matter. I have no difficulty in facilitating a debate on it.

Senator O'Toole also referred to the need to revisit the legislation relating to members of the Judiciary. I have no difficulty in such a debate taking place.

Senator Hannigan expressed strong views in respect of incineration and the proposed incinerator at Nobber, which is located not too far from where he and I live. I will pass on his views to the Minister and inquire as to the Department's policy in respect of this matter. I will communicate directly with the Senator regarding the matter.

A number of Members referred to barrier-free tolling. I am aware that there have been great improvements and that traffic is moving extremely swiftly on the M50 as a result of the introduction of such tolling. Those of us who travel here via the N4 or the N6 can see evidence of the latter on a daily basis. I have no doubt that the position will improve further. Drivers should be careful in the places where the old toll barriers are still in existence because it is not always the case that those barriers rise automatically. I am informed that these barriers will be removed in the coming months.

Senators O'Sullivan, Coghlan and Cummins highlighted the serious situation regarding Kerry County Council and representation on a particular board. When my party was in opposition, it made a strong stand because the permanent ministry, as it was then referred to, was really pushing the case. We will support, in any way possible, having public representatives who are accountable to the people elected to boards of this nature every five years in order that there might be accountability in respect of their activities. Senators should raise at forthcoming meetings of their parliamentary parties the fact that not one of the seven members of the board in question, which is located on the border of the Kerry area, is a public representative and we will return to the matter in two weeks' time to see how matters have progressed. This issue could also be addressed in the context of the Bill being taken in the House next week.