Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators have referred to the question of some employers changing their employees' contracts. This is a new dimension and challenge that the House must discuss in the context of our debate on the economy.

Senator Mullen mentioned European law and the issue of crucifixes in schools. As he correctly pointed out, the protocols inserted in the Lisbon treaty by the Taoiseach, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and their officials and the Constitution protect us. Concerning Senator Quinn's point, I have already mentioned the visit by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Martin, to the House yesterday.

Senator Hanafin and others referred to balance in the media and a need to be responsible, especially at this difficult time. People are losing their jobs and financial pressure is the order of the day morning, noon and night for many families. The media has a serious responsibility not to increase the difficulties of the 500,000 unemployed people by running programmes that will annoy them and only worsen their situation. The media only want to know about bad news. On the Order of Business, I have often asked which radio or television station would give us 30 minutes of good news every day. We could enjoy life for those 30 minutes and then switch off.