Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senator Hannigan spoke about his meeting with the First Minister of Northern Ireland, at which he discussed various issues. The Senator indicates that €5 billion worth of property taken over by NAMA is in the North. This is a matter on which we can have a debate in the House. It is a challenge for NAMA - perhaps, in one way, an advantage - that properties outside the State may be of higher value than those within it. We will discuss NAMA and its operations on a monthly basis when we come back after the Christmas break.

Senators Mary White and Glynn spoke about the problem of suicide. Senator White who has been a champion of this issue in the House has mentioned the 10,000 people who are widowed every year. I had not realised the number was so large. As Senator Glynn who has much expertise in this area pointed out, we should discuss the matter in the House. It has been highlighted by the two Senators as we approach Christmas. We should all care for those who have been bereaved this year and last year and consider visiting them over the Christmas period. As Senator Cannon said, the recent flooding has shown us that community spirit is still alive and well in Ireland. Certainly, we should bear in mind at Christmas time what Senators Mary White and Glynn have stated.

Senators Buttimer, Glynn and Bradford raised Seanad reform. I am intent on making progress in this area early in February. We will see what we can do to make the House more relevant and how the necessary reforms will start to take place.

Senator Cannon raised the issue of the ISPCC, domestic violence and the 500 children who called the helpline on Christmas Day last year and had no-one to answer. This deserves a full debate here in the House and I have no difficulty in providing time for this.

Senator Bacik asked after the climate change Bill. I certainly can inquire when that is due in the House but I am sure that the debate and the deliberations taking place in Copenhagen this week will be taken into account in that Bill.

Senator Hanafin outlined to the House issues of gas, fish stocks and misrepresentation in costs. It is a serious issue where research has not been thoroughly investigated before it is published. I certainly will pass his views on to the relevant Minister after the Order of Business.