Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

As Senator Quinn mentioned, yesterday we discussed the proposed delay in the opening of the new section of the M9 between Carlow and Kilcullen that will bypass Castledermot. I welcome the fact that the Minister for Transport has withdrawn his objections to it. He has decided not to interfere in the workings of the NRA and the road will open on Monday.

I hope in the new session we will have a general debate on justice matters. This side of the House has sought such a debate throughout this term but we have failed to get the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to come to the House to discuss the questions I and several other Members have asked to be discussed, such as conditions in prisons and overcrowding and that fear of the law and the Garda Síochána seems to be gone. There are quite a number of other pressing justice matters.

I join in wishing the Cathaoirleach, the staff, the Leader, the Fianna Fáil Whip and all Members of the House a very happy Christmas. I hope we come back renewed with plenty of spirit. Some of us do not need more spirit but we will do the best we can to keep the show on the road and keep the Government accountable, as is our job.