Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I join with Members in congratulating the Ushers on their good fortune and send good wishes to Mr. Michael Phelan, whom I understand will retire shortly.

Senator Regan made known his views on the IMF report and the difficulties and challenges facing Government in terms of the economy and all pertaining to it. The Senator will have an opportunity to raise the issue by way of Private Members' business. As I stated, we will be reviewing week-on-week this matter during the current session.

Senator Hanafin called for a debate on communications and expressed serious concerns in regard to the future of Eircom and the important role it can play in the development of our economy. I have no difficulty in providing time for such a debate and will endeavour to ensure it takes place during the coming weeks.

Senator Quinn expressed his support for the proposals outlined earlier and informed the House of the departure today of the Brent geese. As I understand it, they leave on 23 April and return on 23 October. One learns a little every day. I have learned a little today having heard Senator Quinn's contribution on the topic.

I join Senator Donohue in congratulating Senator Norris on the recognition given to him last evening by the Lord Mayor of Dublin. It was well deserved and we all congratulate him. An issue on which Senator Norris and I agree is the move of the Abbey Theatre to the GPO building for the 2016 commemoration celebrations. I look forward to debating that issue in the House a little later this session.