Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

We speak too negatively when things are not successful but when things are good we should be open-minded and congratulate those making these achievements possible.

Senator Prendergast expressed her concerns for those unfortunate people who suffer from epilepsy. I fully agree with her sentiments and those of Senator Feeney about the hard work of the Minister of State, Deputy John Moloney, through A Vision for Change. We wish him well in that area. Senator Prendergast also highlighted her concerns and asked for the Minister for Health and Children to come into the House regarding the plight of those running Crumlin Hospital, particularly the proposed ward closures. I have given an undertaking to the House to have the Minister for Health and Children come here to discuss and debate this and I am waiting for a date in her diary to allow for this.

Senator O'Sullivan asked for an update from the Minister for Transport on the proposal for speed cameras. The company that has been successful in acquiring the contract will create 60 new jobs, which is more good news, particularly for his constituency of Kerry. I will make inquiries into this.

Senators Buttimer and O'Donovan expressed their serious concerns and called for a debate on the HSE and its proposals as they relate to Cork county and city, University Hospital Cork and Bantry Hospital. I have already asked the Minister to come here for the broad debate on HSE issues and the Minister has always been forthcoming in this area and has always taken questions at the end of her visits to the House. I look forward to that taking place at the earliest possible time.

Senator Leyden reminded the House of Fianna Fáil's announcement in its manifesto that planning fees where work has not commenced will be reduced by 50% over the next two years. This is to be welcomed. Also, if Fianna Fáil is returned, the Senator outlined to the House, anywhere it controls councils, it will be party policy that there will be no increase in rates for three years. We welcome the Senator's information.

Senators Norris, Alex White and O'Donovan all raised the blasphemy issue. The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform has been strongly advised by the Attorney General on this aspect of the 1961 Act. I heard the Minister on the radio this morning talking about this and we all know his intentions. I have no difficulty in asking him to come to the House when the legislation is ready. It is currently at an advanced stage.

Senator Ó Murchú asked about the Pearse Centre and the memory of those who gave their lives in the ultimate sacrifice - to give their lives for the cause of the freedom of our country which we have all enjoyed for the past 90 years or more. I certainly agree with his request that the Office of Public Works replaces the list that was there before the refurbishment works commenced. That is the least that can be done.

Senators Regan and Hannigan asked about Thornton Hall. We were all looking forward to progress taking place in this area.