Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senator Ó Murchú made a strong case for a debate on the Irish language coming up to St. Patrick's Day, and Senators Doherty and O'Reilly also called again for this debate. I will endeavour to have this take place, especially during the two weeks of Seachtain na Gaeilge, from 2 March to 17 March. We in the Oireachtas can be really proud of having set up TG4 which has been an enormous success. I am delighted in this 125th anniversary year of the Gaelic Athletic Association, GAA, to see that the four captains of the All-Ireland winning teams will be the grand marshals of the St. Patrick's Day parade in Croke Park. I congratulate all who have made this possible. We salute the GAA and everyone associated with the language and I will have time set aside for this next week.

Senator Hannigan called for an update on jobs and apprentices finishing their courses. We all fully agree with this. I can also confirm that the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment will be in the House to give us an update on what is really happening on the job front and the serious challenge facing the country.

Senator Doherty called for a debate on education. I certainly can have that take place. The Government is investing €640 million this year in capital programmes. That is the fact although times are difficult for the Exchequer.

Senators McFadden and Glynn called for a debate to highlight serious concerns about bowel cancer and a proposal to offer free screening services to those aged over 50 years. That is a wonderful idea and we should strive to ensure that the Minister will bring it in at the earliest possible time. I have no difficulty in a debate on these issues taking place after St. Patrick's Day.

Senator Ó Domhnaill called for a debate on cross-Border fraud in the social welfare area. The Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Deputy Mary Hanafin, gave an uplifting and enlightening address at our Ard-Fheis but I have no difficulty in asking her to come to the House to let all colleagues contribute on this serious issue. The Senator also spoke about the licensing of auctioneers and his experience in the Donegal area. I will pass on his views to the Minister after the Order of Business and see what the response will be.

Senators Ó Domhnaill and Buttimer called for a debate on sport and particularly Ireland's participation in the 2012 Olympics. We all want to see our sportspersons getting the greatest opportunity especially when the Olympics take place in London and I have no difficulty in having time put aside to debate this.

Senators Buttimer and Glynn called for a debate on mental health. I have no difficulty in having time set aside for this. Senator Butler called for a debate on child care. I have no difficulty having time left aside for this also.

Senator McCarthy spoke of the horrific experience of the unfortunate Latvians on a ship in the Cork area, this being the second such experience. I thank and congratulate everyone who helped there. The human rights issue arising from this is totally unacceptable. I will certainly pass the Senator's views on to the Minister after the Order of Business.

Senator Glynn called for a debate on diabetes related issues which he has continually outlined to the House. I intend to have a long debate on this serious issue.