John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I join with colleagues in congratulating Senator James Carroll on his election. Although I did not know he was going to be unveiled today, I felt a bit funny this morning as he has taken my mantle as the youngest Member of the Seanad which I had for seven years. My first name is a giveaway when it comes to my age. I wish Senator Carroll well in his time in the House.

Will the Leader extend the time allowed for the debate on the recent flooding? County Kilkenny has had several serious days with flooding on the lower reaches of the River Nore. The investment by the Office of Public Works on the flood relief scheme in Kilkenny city has worked with no flooding there. However, it has led to an increased problem further down the river in Thomastown, Inistioge and New Ross.

Will the leader organise a debate on school transport, which I have raised eight times since the House returned in September? Some young children cannot get school bus tickets when their older siblings may be travelling to both primary and secondary schools on the same school bus network. This is a serious matter for the families concerned. I know the Minister of State, Deputy Haughey, has been examining the matter and I would like a discussion on it in the House as soon as possible.

I share the frustration of many low-paid public servants with the lack of leadership from the Government and respect their right to protest. I urge them, however, to reconsider next Thursday's protest because they have made their mark. I hope the Government will take on board their frustrations and concerns when drafting the budget. This is all the more reason why the Seanad should have a discussion on the budget in advance of 9 December which the Leader has promised for weeks. I urge the public sector committee of the ICTU to reconsider Thursday's proposed second day of unrest.