Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Hanafin and Buttimer but especially Senator Quinn updated the House on the waste of food and referred to best-before dates and other indicators on food packaging. We certainly could debate this in the House and I have no difficulty in allocating time for it

Senator Prendergast referred to patient transfer and the ambulance service for Carrick-on-Suir. I will certainly pass on the Senator's strong views to the Minister. Perhaps her point, which was certainly heartfelt, could be raised on the Adjournment.

With regard to Senator Bacik's remarks, we all want to express our condolences to the families of the three young doctors and the two employees of Aer Lingus who perished in the Air France flight tragedy. It is unbelievable, appalling and heartbreaking. I pass on our condolences, best wishes and sympathies to the families of the young people who lost their lives so tragically.

Senator Hanafin asked that each party present in the House its policy for economic recovery. This is a very worthwhile proposal and I certainly will consider it. The opportunity should be given to each party leader and party member in the House to make his or her proposals for a plan for economic recovery. Some very good opportunities and proposals could come from that and it would let the public know the Opposition's plans for the next three years.