Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Fitzgerald, Norris, Ormonde, Regan, Walsh and Donohoe called for a debate on the Lisbon treaty and the forthcoming referendum, following the deliberations of the Taoiseach and the Minister for Foreign Affairs in Europe. It is my intention that the Minister or the Taoiseach will come before the House to update it on the deliberations that are taking place this week. Many good and responsible contributions were made today on the Order of Business on this issue and I am very heartened by those contributions. The House will play a central role in the forthcoming referendum which is of the utmost importance to the country and the challenges facing us all in the coming years.

Senators Alex White, McCarthy and Walsh, called for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to come to the House to debate local government reform and directly elected mayors. I join in the congratulations to all those who have been elected to their high positions as chairmen and mayors of various cities in recent days. On the question of executive powers for the new mayor of the City of Dublin, I would like that debate to take place with the Minister present to see how this matter can be progressed.

Senator Terry Leyden outlined to the House his serious concerns about the missing 15 computers belonging to the HSE in Roscommon. He is concerned about the lack of security and I join with him in wishing the Garda Síochána well in its investigations as everyone in the midlands area is very concerned about this incident.

Senator O'Reilly called for a debate on jobs, job creation and competitiveness. I fully agree with the sentiments expressed by the Senator. With regard to the wind energy sector, I welcome today's announcement that in the midlands area, in the Cathaoirleach's native County Offaly, in the Walsh Island area, Bord na Móna will participate in a proposal for a wind energy farm which will be very significant for the midlands area and I welcome this initiative taken by Bord na Móna and look forward to it being progressed. Senator Keaveney referred to matters of road safety and I will pass on the Senator's views to the Minister.

Senator Norris wished all his colleagues a happy Bloomsday and we all join with the Senator in this regard. He referred to the increase in footfall in the James Joyce Centre. As a near neighbour I am still awaiting the invitation but I wish the Senator well and look forward to the rest of the week and continued success because the Senator has been the champion of the cause and he richly deserves all the credit and accolades.

Senator Hanafin asked that inquiries be made as to whether it is due to an agreement or legislation that there is a media blackout on the day of an election. I always understood the day of an election was a closed day in the media. The Senator highlighted an example for the House and I will pass on the Senator's strong views to the Minister. The regulator could perhaps take a look at this and see what can be done to progress it.