Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators O'Toole, Buttimer and Feeney spoke about looking forward to a return to social partnership in industrial relations. I agree that the concept of social partnership has a significant role to play in the continuation of the progress of the nation. The quicker we get around the table to discuss next year's budget and subsequent ones the better. There will be three difficult budgets and as such social partnership has an important role to play in the process. What had to be done was done and we will have to move on. That is my humble advice to everyone concerned.

Senators O'Toole, Alex White, Harris and Ormonde gave the House the benefit of their experience on the skill set required for political life in bringing people together and membership of both Dáil Éireann and Seanad Éireann, as well as local authorities. Democratically elected men and women give of their time morning, noon and night in serving the people, whether it be in the Dáil, Seanad or local authorities. They are the representatives of the people, whom the media overlook all of the time. The people's representatives are demeaned by the media when they demean politicians. The example we have had in the past 48 hours is a good one for public service in bringing people like ourselves to represent others. It is an honour and privilege to do so, nothing more and nothing less. There will be no difficulty in having a debate on this issue and I will allow time for it. On a related matter, Senator Alex White asked about the possibility of discussing the heads of a Bill to be published which will provide for a directly elected mayor of Dublin. I will look into that matter later today and inform the House of my findings next Tuesday.

Senators Mooney and Ó Brolcháin called for a debate on tourism. Senator Mooney correctly highlighted the importance of the industry. There are over 300,000 employed in the services sector which is facing significant challenges. The hotels, restaurant and guest house sector is under the same intense pressure as every other sector. I am pleased to hear that €20 million is to be spent in March throughout the world in promoting Ireland which could lead to an increase of 5% in tourist numbers this year, as noted by Senator Mooney, compared to a decrease of 2% last year. I will have no difficulty in allowing a debate to take place prior to the St. Patrick's Day break. I commend Senators for calling for such a timely debate.

Senator Coghlan commented on the Governor of the Central Bank; he might like to discuss the topic with his leader. We can also discuss the issue at the Committee on Procedure and Privileges.

Senator Leyden mentioned the speed limits in force in Dublin and, in particular, the 30 km/h limit which is not working. I suggested last week that a speed limit of 40 km/h could be considered. I understand the issue is to be the subject of public consultation. I commend all the councillors and local authority members of all political parties who have played their part. I heard the comments of the chairperson yesterday morning and anything that can be done to save lives must be commended. A speed limit of 30 km/h is too low, while 50 km/h is too high. Therefore, would I see a speed limit of 40 km/h as being very acceptable to everybody concerned.

Senator Leyden also mentioned the taxi regulator. I will pass on his strong views in that regard to the Minister. There are 14,000 taxi licences in Dublin, which seems high compared to the 21,000 in the city of London.

Senators Ó Murchú, Mullen and McCarthy called for a debate on the media. Senator Ó Murchú again outlined to the House the proposal of Raidió na Gaeltachta to cease broadcasting Sunday morning services. As I stated yesterday, it is important to have time for reflection; setting aside one hour each week is not too much to expect. Therefore, I hope the radio station will consider the matter again. As Senator Ó Murchú noted, perhaps when members of the committee visit the station in the very near future and discuss the issue with management, the decision might be changed.

Senator Ormonde called for a debate on cosmetic clinics. I will have no difficulty in allowing such a debate to take place. The Senator highlighted the urgent nature of the issue and I will see if we can debate it in the coming weeks.

Senator Bacik spoke about key prosecution witnesses in criminal trials. I fully agree with her views on the matter and the decisions of the Garda Síochána.