Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

This historic week also marks the anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. We have achieved a great deal in early April over the years, and it is a week in which it is hoped the budget will play its part also.

Senator Regan raised the issue of the 75th anniversary of the Irish Constitution on which we had statements in the House with the Minster at the time, Deputy Brian Lenihan. I want to pass on our condolences to the Henchy family on the death of Mr. Justice Henchy, who made a remarkable contribution in his lifetime in terms of justice, human rights and equal rights for the people of our country under the Constitution.

Senator O'Reilly asked that the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Coughlan, come to the House to discuss matters relating to unemployment, particularly in terms of tourism. I support his call and will have such a debate take place.

The Senator raised also the question of the school building programme. A total of €641 million, which is a great deal of money, is being spent on the school capital programme this year. He also referred to a proposal on green energy, including wind farming and hydro energy, which is the way forward. The Senator is a candidate for Europe, along with our colleague, former Senator Paschal Mooney. If everyone supports the local candidates they should do well, and we wish them well in their plight in the European campaign. We look forward to Europe playing a role by increasing its funding for Ireland because of its geographical location on the periphery of Europe. We could be an exporter of energy in a few years if we have the right technology and the right policies.

Senator Glynn called for a debate on psychiatric services. There is no one more experienced on this topic in this House than he is and I have no problem in setting time aside for this in recognition of the many years work he has done in St. Loman's in Mullingar.

Senator Buttimer welcomed the restart of talks with the social partners and I join him in that. I will pass his views on about the establishment of a forum where both Houses of the Oireachtas can engage with the Government and the social partners to make a contribution.

Senator MacSharry asked for debate on issues relating to the north west, which I will arrange at the earliest opportunity, and for a further discussion of all matters pertaining to the HSE. He paid tribute to Sligo General Hospital and the great work it does.

I heard the broadcast referred to by Senator Cummins on Regtel and the need for legislation to prevent the abuse of consumers in this area. I will request information from the Minister to see if legislation will be forthcoming in the next six to nine months that could have an extra section inserted to cover this point.

Senator Ormonde called for a debate on the report of the National Social Forum and I have no difficulty with that.

Senator McFadden highlighted the plight of farmers and pointed out the importance of agriculture. The Minister for Agriculture and Food, Deputy Brendan Smith, is doing an excellent job. He comes from an agricultural background and is a neighbour of ours in County Cavan, where there were not many big ranchers. The poor people of Cavan often had to rear families on 25 to 30 acres, something I know from personal experience.