Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I have given credit where it is due to every political party on the Order of Business of this House, but the facts speak for themselves. I reiterate the extending of congratulations to Mullingar regional hospital on being one of the top three preforming hospitals in the country.

I will pass the strong views of Senators Regan and Norris on to the Minister concerned in regard to tendering.

On the issue of the illegally held firearms and the ammunition missing from the Army barracks in Limerick, this can be addressed when the Bill due to be debated will be taken in the House. Such stealing of arms is alarming to say the least.

Senator Ó Murchú spoke of the high level of employment with some 1.7 million people in employment at this time of serious economic difficulties prevailing worldwide. It is a magnificent achievement. Some 600,000 more people are in employment than were in employment in 1977 or in the period from 1983 to 1987. That is an incredible achievement and it must be commended.