Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I fully agree with the Senator's views regarding the Abbey Theatre going to O'Connell Street and I refer to my comments on yesterday's Order of Business. Senator McFadden and Senator Quinn outlined to the House the difficulties being experienced as a result of the budget decision on the reduction in excise duty which comes at a difficult time. I will convey their strong views to the Minister and ask for an indication regarding this massive challenge which I heard debated on radio yesterday. It is a difficult issue but I am confident the Department of Finance will meet these distributors at least half way.

Senator Norris spoke about the evening he spent in St. Ann's church. Anyone who missed his television appearance last Sunday night will have an opportunity to see it again on Friday night when he appears on "Val Falvey TD". The matter with regard to the Charities Bill can be taken up on the Appropriation Bill tomorrow morning. It is the first item on tomorrow's Order of Business.

Senator Norris spoke about how the Houses of the Oireachtas are portrayed in the media and how the empty seats are highlighted. We know that colleagues have to be in their offices and have to meet deputations and attend meetings in various locations. If memory serves me right the editing of the broadcast of this House is entirely in the control of the Joint Administration Committee, the former broadcast committee and it is one of its functions. As a member of that committee I will raise it with the new Chairman when he takes office in the next few days to see what can be done. Colleagues are working hard enough and long enough and this is an area we should highlight. I have often viewed myself in this House. I question why the editors would identify empty rows in the Chamber all the time rather than take head and shoulder shots of speakers or of the beautiful background such as the fireplaces and the doors and give an impression of the beautiful ambience of this Chamber. It is important to remain positive.

Senator Coffey raised the issue of the plight of senior citizens in Waterford and hopes they can be blessed as happened the people in Kenmare. I support him in his call. The next time the Minister is in the House I suggest Senator Coffey raises this issue. I will speak to the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Deputy Cullen, in the meantime to see what he can do. I know the people of Waterford are delighted with their new bridge and the new road as a result of the Minister's hard work and endeavour down through the years and the beautiful city of Waterford will benefit from it. Senator Coffey asked for a debate on the elderly. The social welfare Bill is in the House all day today. As this is the last sitting week before the recess I strongly suggest the Senator brings this to the Minister's attention while she is in the House today.