Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

We do not want to see any other outside nation trying to infiltrate because they want to get into the marketplace. It has been stated that some have lost more than €70 million here. We do not with to see standards falling. I welcome John Drennan, a responsible journalist, to the House. He is a person who attends the Dáil in general but it has been lovely to see him here in the past number of days. I welcome anyone to the Press Gallery who can bring the proceedings of the House to the people and who can let them know of the wonderful work taking place in their interest.

Senator Mullen commented on Tesco and Marks & Spencer and highlighted other areas to the House. I support his call for short-term money to be kept in our country and if that is possible then I support it.

Senator O'Sullivan commented in respect of the slow VAT repayments to farmers, especially in the Munster area. I will certainly pass on his request to the Minister for Finance.

Senators Butler and Walsh made comments in respect of general practitioner fees, consultants' fees and all of these other areas. I realise that the doctor only medical card has been a welcome guest in many cases. Anyone who is sick should not be prevented from seeking the support, advice and assistance of their GP. I am aware this is occurring and it is a dreadful situation, especially for the middle income earner. Such people are the new poor. No one realises how difficult it is for them. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul and other organisations are a godsend in respect of the help and assistance they are giving at present to middle income earners, who are falling on hard, tough and bad times. It is certainly an area of which we should be very careful and mindful. Senator Walsh also outlined to the House his concerns and I will certainly discuss these with him following the Order of Business.

The Leas-Cathaoirleach, Senator Paddy Burke, commented on public private partnerships. Such views should be stated very strongly by all Senators during the pre-budget statements. Public private partnership are a very significant opportunity for those who have money and who wish to invest to be allowed to invest. This keeps jobs going, because it is all about jobs and competitiveness.