Dan Boyle (Green Party)

The need to build a new prison is as much about the need to replace unacceptable prison spaces and I hope that point will be made in any such debate.

Senator Glynn spoke about the need for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to come to the House to talk about planning enforcement and how unnecessary delays are having an impact on the local economy. That request will be made to the Minister. The House will soon have an opportunity to debate new planning legislation when many of these issues can be raised.

Senator Quinn, reiterating a point he made last night about the dairy industry, referred to recent comments by the economist Jim Power and the decision by the Tesco chain to source its food from outside the country which will have an impact on Irish jobs. I agree there is a need for a debate and direction on this matter which I will put to the Leader when future business is planned. Senator Hanafin also requested a debate on the matter.

Senator Callely requested detailed statistics concerning MABS which I do not have to hand, but I will make sure he gets them. He called for a debate in the light of the difficult financial situation in which people find themselves when they lose employment. Senator Coffey, in calling for a debate on employment, specifically referred to a local announcement in Waterford and the effect it would have.

I cannot speak on one point raised by Senator Mullen about an ongoing court case as the Cathaoirleach has ruled on the matter. Senator Buttimer called for a debate on sport which is necessary, would be timely and for which time should be made available.