Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Oireachtas and local authority members will meet with officials and the Garda to establish how we can help and assist in respect of the matters and challenges in each constituency area. I have no difficultly in holding a debate on this matter.

Senator Healy Eames referred to farmers and the waste management scheme. We are all aware there was €150 million allocated for the scheme last year. However, the success of the scheme amounts to between €416 million and €417 million. As we are aware the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has been a hard working, dedicated rural man from our neighbouring constituency in Cavan-Monaghan. I can only speak in the highest terms of the Minister, Deputy Brendan Smith. Everything that can be done is being done and payments will be made. I understand that negotiation, discussion and consultation is taking place at the highest level involving Mr. Padraig Walsh and his team along with the Minister's team to establish how we can help those who need help first and who need this grant.

Senator Quinn highlighted concerns regarding crime and bad debt collections and his experience in the past. His suggestion to the House was not a bad idea. For those allegedly involved in crime to be collecting bad debts for anyone is not to be recommended and I take the proposal in the spirit in which it was given. We hope to have a lengthy debate on justice and related matters at the very earliest opportunity. There are many Bills due before the House related to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the portfolio of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. There is often an opportunity on Second Stage when the Minister is present and later on Committee Stage for questions and answers and the up to date position can be provided by the Minister in this area.

Senators Hanafin and McCarthy called for a debate on social partnership. I have no difficulty in this taking place. I wish to see the social partners and the Government staying close together. The success of our country since 1987 has been the success of the Government and social partners and everyone participating in our discussion.