Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I am calling for a debate as soon as possible on local government in advance of the local government elections. Senators Ó Murchú and Ormonde mentioned planning; we should debate the matter in both rural and urban areas. We should examine An Taisce which is demonising Ireland with its carry on. Let us also look at An Bord Pleanála. How can it go against the report of its inspector? How can it overturn the decision of an inspector who carries out a study and makes a recommendation?

We should have a debate on the role of directly elected mayors. Will this role be the same as that of the city or county manager? If so, do we need a county manager? Will there be a power struggle? We need a debate on real local government.

I join Senator Twomey in asking the Deputy Leader to change the record of the House. Last Tuesday or Wednesday — I cannot remember which day — we were told by Senator Feeney that BreastCheck was available in the north west. A press statement issued by BreastCheck on 28 April stated the national cancer screening service had confirmed that its plans to commence first-run screening in counties Clare, Donegal and Leitrim later this year were temporarily on hold. BreastCheck is not available in the entire north west.

We should also have a debate on the proposed transfer of breast cancer services at South Infirmary Hospital to Cork University Hospital. I hope the Deputy Leader will join me in asking the Minister not to proceed with the transfer. It has not inspired confidence in the women of Cork. As the HSE launches a celebrity communications strategy, it is an insult to hear Mr. Connors on the radio defending the decision to canvass the views of celebrities on the health service.