Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

It is a huge step forward no matter what part of the country one is from or what team one supports in the all-Ireland, whether it is Kerry or Kilkenny.

Senators Mary White, Ó Murchú and Mullen welcomed the publication of the Irish language newspaper. It is great to hear the Irish Independent will distribute it every Wednesday. I fully support the sentiments expressed and thank Senators for bringing it to the attention of the House.

Senator Coghlan is relieved at the lifting of the blockade in Killarney national park. I wish the 900 German delegates attending a conference there well. It is the number one tourism location in the country. We look forward to our holidays in beautiful Killarney every year.

Senator Norris inquired about a gentleman last week who was required to attend the Garda national immigration bureau today to make arrangements for his deportation. Further representations were received and a further submission was made based on these representations to the Minister who will discuss the further representations and submission with his officials tomorrow morning. I hope this updates the position for the Senator.

Senator Bacik called for a debate on prisons and prison sentencing. I have given a commitment that it will take place. Senator Callely raised the issue of local authorities increasing their rates. Rate charges and rate valuations are a serious challenge for the Government. Many businesses are finding it very difficult to keep their doors open. Rates are a serious challenge on the balance sheet. I will pass the Senator's views on to the Minister.

Senator Norris referred to increasing VAT and duty on tobacco in the budget. A debate on the budget will take place on 1 December. He also raised the issue of capital punishment and the views expressed by the eminent retiring judge on putting fear into the law. We all oppose capital punishment but an increase in prison sentencing may be the way forward.

Senator Ó Murchú congratulated Senator Mullen on his great defence of all in public life on television the other evening. I join with him in that regard. He was a terrific example of someone who was there to represent all public representatives honestly and fairly.

Senators Healy Eames and Ellis raised the issue of the proposed one-day strike in regard to which very many people want to do the right thing. I hope the Government and union movement can still explore the issues in talks because this must be done in consultation and negotiation regardless of whether it is done before or after the proposed one-day stoppage. I hope that in the national interest the proposed one-day stoppage will not take place and that everyone involved will get around the table and in the national interest work to the best advantage of Ireland plc. Many people know that €4 billion in savings is required and they want to get on with the job of playing their part on possibly a once-off or a twice-off basis to help the country. We have had a good ten or 12 years of 5% to 7% economic growth and such economic growth was unprecedented elsewhere in the world with the exception of China.