Feargal Quinn (Independent)

It is difficult at a time when much attention is focused on financial matters to be reminded, as Senator Hannigan has done, of today's conference on world hunger which will be attended by Kofi Annan. Last night, I attended a function with Mr. Annan to mark the 40th anniversary of the foundation of Concern. The event provided a timely reminder that 850 million people go to bed hungry each night. Let us put things in perspective at this time of serious concern about our financial position because we have much for which to be thankful.

We must also be grateful for the conservation of our wildlife. An interesting report was published yesterday by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds in Northern Ireland and BirdWatch Ireland. It points out that of 199 species of birds, seven, including the corncrake, barn owl, curlew and yellow hammer, have been placed on a list of endangered species. While these types of problems do not attract attention during times of financial difficulty, Senators should ensure we discuss the matter. I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on conservation in the coming weeks to divert the attention of the House from financial matters to other issues that matter to us.

On the budget, as one who is ashamed to admit to no longer travelling to the House by bicycle, I have no problem with the introduction of a €200 levy on car parking spaces which will apply to Members of the Oireachtas. However, I have a problem with an 08 registered car licensed in County Westmeath which is repeatedly parked in the yellow box in the car park, thus preventing Members from leaving the car park in the normal manner. While I am sure the vehicle is not connected to the Leader, perhaps he will find out to whom it belongs.