Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

As I understand it, the plans in this regard are well underway. As regards the Veritas advertisement for radio, anyone wishing to make a complaint in this regard can do so to the Broadcasting Complaints Commission.

Senators Coffey, Donohoe, Keaveney, Ormonde and Quinn expressed strong views in regard to the murder of Aidan O'Kane. As stated earlier this morning, this is an issue for society and, in particular parents, and the Departments of Education and Science, Social and Family Affairs and Justice, Equality and Law Reform. We need to discuss this matter in the House with the Minister. I will endeavour to provide time for such a debate. As I stated, yesterday I passed on my condolences on behalf of the House in respect of this terrible tragedy, which we do not want to see happen again. Whatever we can do, we should do. The concern and experiences expressed by many Senators in the House this morning may be of assistance to the Minister in addressing this issue.

Senators Leyden and Norris expressed their support for human rights. Today is an important day for Pamela Izevbekhai and her family and we await the outcome of this case this evening. Senator Norris called for a debate on emigration and asked when the emigration Bill will come before the House. I will inform the House of the position in this regard tomorrow morning.

Senator Keaveney called for an evaluation of the work of women in the Oireachtas and the work of the Commission. I have no difficulty in making time available for a debate on this matter. She also called for a debate on domestic violence and requested that take place at the same time as the proposed debate on justice. It would be timely to have such a debate. I will endeavour to arrange for it to take place at the earliest time possible when we resume following the Christmas recess.

Senator Mary White called for a debate on the role of senior citizens, those over 65 years of age, in our society. As the Senator said, half a million people over the age of 65 years now live in our country. She outlined serious concerns about the lack of the BreastCheck service for ladies over 60 years of age and about more minor matters such as the higher cost of worldwide travel insurance for older people and other issues.

I congratulate the Senator on her report and on getting The Irish Times life achievement award, which covers the Thirty-two Counties. The Irish Times and Senator Mary White will highlight the fight against ageism and promote justice and the human rights of older Irish people. She is to be commended on that.