Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

I agree with Senator Walsh's comment about swine flu. My concern is that September is a long time away to have a mere debate on the matter at a time when 133 people have died in Ireland - God forgive me, they are not dead, but have contracted swine flu. Yesterday a child in the United Kingdom who had only a sore throat died from swine flu. Urgent action is required on swine flu, which is a pandemic.

The reason I rise is to support all my colleagues who have referred to the manner in which legislation is being rushed through this House today. The Minister indicated in The Irish Times yesterday that knee-jerk reaction has no place in responding to legislative proposals. I agree with him. The tone of his newspaper article was measured. While we all support the need for legislation, this House should be the forum where we have the opportunity to debate and discuss serious legislation such as the Bill.

Last week lawyers wrote to The Irish Times and expressed their astonishment that we were jettisoning ancient rights. I have similar concerns. I listen to people who are better informed than me. The Garda has today expressed serious concerns about the legislation. It is not too late. We do have powers in the Seanad. We can extend the time for debate and allow for serious contributions from both sides of the House. I am aware that the concerns of colleagues on the other side of the House are as deep and serious as those of Members on this side.

The Well Woman Centres' serious survey on cervical cancer revealed the sad situation that the underprivileged and poor are not availing of free cervical smear tests. No more than Senator Walsh seeking a debate on swine flu, I call on the Leader to invite the Minister to the House to discuss the cervical cancer vaccine. That is what the Well Woman Centres said yesterday, that the cervical cancer vaccine must be administered to 12 year olds because we have such a high rate of cervical cancer.