Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

However, this only can be done by working together.

Some months ago, I asked the Leader whether he would discuss with the other group leaders in the House putting in place a structure within the proceedings of the House that would allow Members to deal with topical issues. It would be done in order that Members could deal with whatever was the topical issue, be it economic, financial, educational, health related or whatever, and would be incorporated into the schedule of the House's business. This would be helpful and I support its incorporation into the schedule of the House. The Leader should respond as to how the discussions with the other group leaders progressed in that regard.

I wish to raise two further issues with the Leader. First, in respect of education, concern has been expressed regarding the loss of teachers and the capital building programme. Will the Leader ask the Minister for Education and Science to put in place an official at the end of a helpline who would explain the implications or procedures that have been adopted in respect of these two issues?

Second, I seek clarification from the Minister for Defence regarding the decision not to raise the Asgard II. Should the Asgard II be left on the seabed where it lies, will there be other cost implications? Will the French authorities ask us to raise it and so on?