Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senator Coffey referred to the Financial Services Ombudsman, Mr. Meade, who upheld 63% of complaints. I will see if time can be left aside to discuss this issue on our return. Senators Coffey and Twomey also referred to the rural environment protection scheme, REPS 4 as we know it. We will have to get an up-to-date position on that issue and I will revert to the House on the Order of Business tomorrow morning. It is certainly exercising the minds of everyone in the agriculture sector. We want to play our part as representatives in assisting the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in any way we possibly can.

Senator Ormonde called for a debate, in view of the recession, on the situation facing those who were born in the boom years. I will arrange to have time left aside to discuss this matter after the recess.

Senator Harris correctly pointed out the need for everyone to play their part, including Members of the Oireachtas. He has given a good example and Senators have accepted a 25% reduction in our travelling allowances, as well as a 10% levy, which is substantial. It represents about €20,000 to most Senators living outside the Dublin area, which is a large amount of money because a Senator's salary is a humble one in a sense. When one takes into consideration the cost of running a car and everything to do with being a Senator at present, the allowances only cover what is really necessary. I fully support the Senator's view that if everyone in the public service is playing their part, we, as Members of the Oireachtas, should do so also, and we are playing our part.

Senator Coghlan referred to the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Gormley, in respect of issues concerning his native town of Killarney that he has been highlighting and outlining to the House. He asked the Cathaoirlech to have this issue discussed on the Adjournment. I listen to his views with great interest every time he brings them to the attention of the House.

Senator Daly referred to the GAA and it is a matter of pride and joy for our country to see the achievements of the Gaelic Athletic Association. This year marks the 125th anniversary of the greatest amateur athletic organisation, possibly in Europe. Every weekend we celebrate those achievements. Those of us who have had the benefit of being life-long members of the association know the value of the GAA to Ireland and what it did for us, as Senator Ó Murchú outlined to the House last year, concerning the reunification of our country and where it is today.

Senator Buttimer raised certain issues. I am endeavouring to provide an update on the bilateral adoption agreement with Vietnam and hopefully I will be able to do so on the Order of Business tomorrow morning.

Senator Glynn sought an urgent debate on road safety, particularly concerning young drivers with souped up cars. There are many such distractions for young people today. Years ago, however, we did not have motor cars. We would be over the moon if we had an old bicycle.