Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Fitzgerald, O'Toole, Alex White, Norris, Doherty, Twomey, Bacik and McCarthy all called for time to discuss the up-to-date situation on Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin. I commend the committee on visiting the hospital this morning. It is something we were all delighted to see happening. There is nothing like meeting those on the front line and hearing at first hand what it is like, so I compliment the committee on its initiative in this area. There is a Private Members' motion in the Dáil this week, so let us hope the Minister may consider additional resources for the hospital. I will not be found wanting in allocating time in the House when we see how matters progress in the Dáil in the next few days.

Senator O'Toole spoke about his own remarks on Bishop John Kirby. I respect the Senator and admire him for his honesty, integrity and his truthfulness, and I expected nothing better of him than to lead in the great example he gave today.

Senator O'Toole as well as Senators Harris, Mullen, Norris and McCarthy also spoke about the pension levies. No matter what walk of life one comes from in Ireland, everyone must make a contribution. I know the Judiciary will make a contribution in the fullness of time by the end of this year. The lead that has been given by the Government, those in the public service and those in the private sector is reflective of the fact that everyone knows the situation our country faces. We should leave it at that and respect the independence of the Judiciary and the Oireachtas so that each can get on with their work. We do expect everyone to pay their share and play their part in our hour of need.

Senator Alex White called for a debate in this House with the Minister of State with responsibility for children. I fully agree with this.

Senator MacSharry called for an urgent debate on the serious matters he has outlined to the House today. No one could stand behind the facts the Senator outlined to the House. I will consider this matter seriously after the Order of Business. I know that the Minister is coming to the House this week, but the serious issue outlined by Senator MacSharry must be acted upon as soon as possible. I will revert to it on the Order of Business tomorrow.

Senators Cannon and Buttimer called for a debate on mortgage difficulties and banking policy in general. All these matters can be raised with the Minister in the House on the Financial Measures (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2009 next Thursday. I fully agree with the sentiments expressed by my colleagues here.

Senator Glynn again called for a debate on the report on compiling the electoral register. We all have had different experiences from the recent elections. I already have committed to a debate in the House. We will also discuss the Senator's proposal to make it mandatory for citizens to vote. We can discuss all the proposals the Senator has outlined to the House, and I will allow time for the debate as soon as possible.

Senators Ross, Regan and Mullen called for an urgent debate on the Lisbon treaty. I have already outlined that the Taoiseach will attend this House to debate the legislation on Thursday, 9 July, immediately after the Order of Business. All colleagues will want to be in the House for the Taoiseach's address and to discuss the matter.

All fair-minded commentators and all of us in public life must say that Senator Ross thoroughly researches most of his comments. He is the longest-standing Member of the House and the second longest Member elected in the Oireachtas. While we may not like what he outlines to the House from time to time, he is quite often correct. What he has outlined to the House about the proposed referendum gives us a stark reality check on what needs to be addressed and the real issue at stake. I commend him for what he has outlined to the House and I look forward to the debate on the legislation on 9 July.

Senator Callely outlined his serious concerns about pharmacies. Pharmacy organisations are concerned there could be high unemployment and further job losses. There are serious concerns in this area. I will endeavour to have an up-to-date briefing on this issue from the Minister.

Senator Callely also called for progress on banking issues and funding for SMEs. He referred to the challenges for SMEs and the code of conduct on business lending. We fully agree with his utterances and with the Minister present in the House on Thursday for the Finance Bill the Senator can discuss these matters.

Senator Bacik called for a debate on Iran. What we see on our television screens is something we would love to debate. I will endeavour to have time set aside before the summer recess to have the debate.

Senator Buttimer supported Senator Harris's call for the spirit of Lemass. Members on this side of the House have been the true champions of the spirit of Lemass from the time he joined in 1917 up to the present.