Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I passed on Senators' views on this yesterday and will do so again today.

Senator Regan referred to NAMA notification. The Senator has been in Brussels quite recently and I know he knows the answer to his question. It would be worthwhile to update the House on a monthly basis on the progress of NAMA. I will endeavour to have a special debate take place on the up-to-date position on NAMA. I hope it will be before the end of the month, if acceptable. I accept Senator Regan's bona fides in this case. While I do not agree with what he did, I must accept he is a person of considerable experience in the European Union. No doubt it will become apparent over time why he took his decision. I hope it was in the national interest but I just do not understand it at present.

Senator Callely called for a debate on CAO applications. This can be taken with the education debate.

Senator Buttimer referred to the ESRI report. Of course we will have a debate on it.

Senator Norris outlined to the House his concern over the smart economy and the 8.5 million hits by researchers and students. This matter can be discussed during the debate on education in the presence of the Minister for Education and Science.

Senator Mullen called for a debate on the care of older people. I have no difficulty with this taking place.

Senators Hanafin and Ó Brolcháin called for a debate on the economy. This is very timely and I hope we will have the debate in light of the publication this week of the Finance Bill. The Bill is to be taken next week in the Dáil over two full days, Tuesday and Wednesday. I will endeavour to have the debate on the Finance Bill and all the issues pertaining to the economy following that.