Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senator John Paul Phelan called for a debate on the report on the Government's severance package, which he has outlined to the House. I will have no difficulty in having this discussed here.

Senator Regan outlined his concerns about the Minister for Defence, Deputy O'Dea. As we all know, the Minister has been an excellent public representative and the people of Limerick are fortunate to have such a capable person representing them. I note the concerns of the Senator. I note also his concerns, as an Irishman, in terms of what he is doing with NAMA.

Senator Bacik has raised the issue of the 500 children who have gone missing in the past ten years. All of these persons may not have gone missing; some may have decided to travel north of the Border. That may be where some of them are located but I fully support the Senator's call.

The Senator also raised the issue of women's participation in politics and 8 March being the day chosen for the debate. I have indicated that I will do everything I possibly can to ensure it takes place.

Senator Buttimer called for a general review of speed limits and a debate on the issue in the House. Senator Callely outlined the difficulties being experienced in the city of Dublin because of the reduction of the speed limit to 30 km/h. I am of the view that 30 km/h is too slow and that 50 km/h is too fast. Why not try a speed limit of 40 km/h? If someone runs out in front of a car travelling at a speed of 50 km/h, it is a shade too fast but people on their bicycles are passing cars travelling at 30 km/h. I accept that road safety is of the essence and that everyone is trying to do his or her best on this issue but there is a level of common sense to which we must adhere.

Senator Donohoe raised the issue of credit flow to small and medium-sized businesses and getting NAMA working. I fully agree that everything must be done to get credit flowing because without it, we are going nowhere in the economy. This is a serious issue and the quicker NAMA is up and running, the better for the country. If we do not have a credit flow, there will be a retraction. I hope Members on the Opposition benches will speak to Senator Regan in that regard. I fully support the call made by Senator Donohoe.