Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

The Senator is heading that way and will appreciate his time in the Seanad when he gets there.

With regard to the value of Mullingar hospital, I share Senator Glynn's view that as Oireachtas Members we would not be worth our salt if we were not supporting the consultants in one of the best and most efficient hospitals in the country. The administrator, Mr. O'Callaghan, deserves a gold medal for what he is doing and all his encouragement, help and assistance. The Minister must recognise the achievements of the hospital and the commitment she gave in this Chamber that hospitals which come up to the mark will be rewarded. We are all in agreement in that regard and I intend to remind the Minister of this commitment. In fairness, she has been forthcoming in her support of the hospital.

Senators Norris, Buttimer, Regan, O'Reilly and Wilson expressed serious concerns about trading along the Border which presents a serious challenge. Not only is excise duty being lost, so also are large amounts of VAT. Alcohol should be consumed in moderation. As a Pioneer, I can fully understand people enjoying their evening out, but it is the abuse of alcohol on which we are in agreement on all sides of the House. Be that as it may, small businesses and everyone involved in the retail sector within many miles of the Border - we are not talking only about counties Westmeath, Leitrim, Longford and Cavan - are concerned about the issue. As two Ulster Senators have pointed out today, it is a serious challenge, but from what we see in dispatches in the media, the Minister is responding. We will discuss the issue again, possibly tomorrow morning, but I accept the views of Senators expressed today.

Senator MacSharry spoke about the budget and those who were less well off and on the margins of society. I fully agree with him.

Senators Regan and MacSharry mentioned social welfare fraud. Those unfortunate enough to be entitled to receive social welfare know and appreciate the importance of this small contribution. I speak with the vast knowledge of experience gained in this regard. PPS cards with photographs should be introduced.