Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I refer to the issue of the bus gate which Senator Bacik highlighted. The damage it is doing to business in the city centre is appalling. Trade in some stores is down by 50%. The issue must be addressed as a matter of urgency. I thank all those who are trying to deal with the difficulties traders are experiencing. If something is not done, many shops in the area will be closed in January and February, not just one or two. I confess the bus gate is working very well for passengers and others but we do not want to see that part of town become a wilderness. That would not be fair or right.

Senator Hanafin called for a debate on innovation. I will have no difficulty in allocating time for such a debate.

Senators Callely and Quinn referred to illegal substances, called for a debate on counterfeit medicines and congratulated the Garda Síochána on last week's huge find of illegal cigarettes. We all congratulate the Garda Síochána and everyone involved in the find. I will have no difficulty in allocating time for a debate on the issues raised.

Senator Buttimer called on the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources to come to the House to debate the insulation programme. I have no difficulty with such a debate taking place.

Senator O'Reilly referred to people travelling to the North to shop and the challenges facing the hotel and licensed vintners sectors. I will have no difficulty in allocating time for such a debate.

Senator Ellis called for a debate on the scourge of heroin, the difficulties many families are experiencing and the huge challenge our society faces as a result of the abuse of this dreadful drug. I will certainly pass on the Senator's strong views to the Minister for Foreign Affairs after the Order of Business.

Senator Mullen and others congratulated the Society of St. Vincent de Paul on the great work it is doing and has done over many decades. Some colleagues were alarmed by its pre-budget submission made today. To say it was an eye opener would be an understatement. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is at the coalface and knows what is happening in families and elsewhere. We will support it in any way we can at this very difficult time.

Senator Cummins called for a debate on EU legislation. Now that the 27 member states will sign the Lisbon treaty, I will have no difficulty allocating time for such a debate. Seanad Éireann could play a meaningful role in the scrutiny of EU legislation. The 27 member states will have eight weeks to deliberate on proposals. I intend to bring all proposals made to the House fortnightly, if possible, in order that we can assist the relevant Minister and the Government in teasing them out to determine Ireland's position.