Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I provided an update for Senators last week and if further progress is made this week I will revert to the issue on tomorrow's Order of Business.

Senators O'Toole, O'Donovan, Hannigan, Leyden, Coffey, Callely, Ormonde, Coghlan, Ó Murchú, Ó Domhnaill and Buttimer expressed strong support for rural bus services. I commend the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Ó Cuív, and my constituency colleague and former Minister for Transport, Deputy O'Rourke, on their role in looking after those who need transport. One should be able to look forward to quality of life and happiness, particularly in the autumn of one's career. I know from another walk of life the terrible feeling of loneliness and of being unable to communicate with anybody. As Senator O'Toole correctly pointed out, the rural transport initiative has been a godsend for those who want to go to bingo or draw their pensions. Those of us who come from rural areas would not be worth our salt if we did not stand up for the people who need this service. During this downturn in the economy, many people need this facility because they may no longer be able to insure or tax their cars. I will arrange a debate on the issue early next week.

Senators Alex White, Bacik, Donohoe, Ormonde and Mullen referred to the recent statement by the very courageous Archbishop of Dublin, Diarmuid Martin, on the church's long-standing commitment to education. When there was no money, the churches not only brought faith to the people but also education to Ireland and, through our missionaries, the world. I will see what I can do to have a debate on the matter with the Minister for Education and Science at the earliest opportunity.

Senator MacSharry welcomed yesterday's bond offering. That the three and seven year bonds were over-subscribed is an indication of the confidence of foreign investors and those who have money.

Senator Regan drew on his legal experience to put a proposition before the House which I will bring to the relevant Minister's attention. The proposition concerned joint land owners, the challenges facing NAMA and the 2006 Laffoy judgment. It was worthy of the Senator to bring these matters to our attention.

Senator O'Donovan called for a debate on the Common Fisheries Policy. I gave a commitment to the House regarding this serious challenge for the fishing industry. It is also an opportunity for job creation if we are serious about addressing the plight of fishermen and women. I have scheduled time for a debate on the issue before the summer recess.

Senator Norris called for a debate on human rights. I have no difficulty in agreeing to such a debate. I will also address with the relevant Minister the remaining issues raised by the Senator.