Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I certainly agree with Senator McFadden, my colleague in County Westmeath, on the matters highlighted at the Garda conference on children in care. We should have a lengthy debate when all Senators can express their views. Senator Keaveney also called for a debate on the length of prison sentences and stopping reoffending, and I have no difficulty in including that in a debate on justice issues.

Senators Coffey, Burke and Jim Walsh called for a debate on job creation with the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. I will set aside time for such a debate.

Senator Mary White correctly pointed out the great work she has been doing and congratulated the Minister for Finance on his initiative on the forthcoming proposals from 1 January, where 70,000 young boys and girls will be able to avail of child care for three hours per day five days a week.