Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senator Alex White offered his congratulations to Limerick County Council on its decision to assign a budget to commence work on the great southern trail. I agree with him in this regard.

Senator MacSharry called for a debate on the national spatial strategy. This is an excellent proposal and I will certainly allow the necessary time as soon as possible on our return after the Christmas recess. I agree that the north west is the part of the State which seems to be suffering most from cutbacks in investment by the Health Service Executive. I will take into account the Senator's strong views on this matter. The Senator also called for a debate on the fishing industry. We have had that debate already this session and will have another such in the next session.

Senator Norris proposed an amendment to the Order of Business, which was seconded by Senator McCarthy. In this last week of the session, I can only propose for debate on legislation which I am required to propose. Perhaps Senator Norris will put his strongly held views on this matter to the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, who will be in the Chamber shortly.