Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Christmas is a time we wish for peace, harmony and goodwill for all, and I certainly wish everyone well. It is important to buy Irish if at all possible.

Senator Glynn called for a debate on community policing and the county policing boards that are currently being set up, which I have no difficulty accommodating. It is timely for the Senator to have called for this issue to be discussed in this House.

Senator Quinn correctly made known his views on the announcement by the Revenue Commissioners of instructions for companies on the management of the 1% levy. They have to ensure the compatibility of software to facilitate this change and industries are also facing various challenges. The Senator's proposal that the Revenue extend to companies some time to accommodate this change is worthwhile. The time allowed for this change to be made is tight as Christmas draws near and having regard to the ten-day closure of companies that usually takes place over Christmas every year.

The Senator called for a debate on Ryanair's takeover bid of Aer Lingus. I must say I was very impressed with Mr. Dermot Mannion's interview on "Morning Ireland" yesterday morning. Of course, we are also very impressed by the achievements of my good friend, Michael O'Leary. As I have often said, he has done more for tourism in Ireland than any other person I know in overcoming the challenges to reduce air travel to such an affordable level. I have no difficulty in setting aside time after the Christmas recess for hearing the views of Members on this matter.

Senator Callely raised again the issue of the supports that will be put in place by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to support Dublin city traders, particularly at this difficult time when commercial rates have increased and increases in various charges are being levied on them. This makes it extremely more difficult for these traders, not least with parking costing €3 per hour in the city centre. I agree with the Senator and will pass on his views to the Minister.

Senator Buttimer called for a debate on unemployment. I have already given a commitment to have a debate on unemployment and on the IDA and I have no difficulty in arranging for such a debate to take place.

The Senator also called for the Minister for Transport to come to the House to update us on the separation of the three major airports, Cork, Dublin and Shannon. I saw the newspaper article to which the Senator referred, but this change will not take place for at least three years.