Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I congratulate all colleagues on their serious views, concerns and utterances. I have no difficulty in requesting the Minister to attend the House to let her know the strong opinions outlined during the Order of Business. I congratulate "Prime Time" on its wonderful work in highlighting this dreadful situation.

Senators Fitzgerald and Corrigan referred to mental health issues and the €43 million in the budget of the Minister of State, Deputy Moloney, during difficult financial times. All Senators agree on the wonderful work being done by him. He is highlighting and championing mental health issues and his attitude, background and expertise as a former member of a health board for many years cannot be beaten. I look forward to his return to the House. As Senator Corrigan stated, he needs our fullest support. When briefings are being given, colleagues should make themselves available. He is a Minister of State for change and we should give him our fullest support. We already do, but it is impossible to be everywhere. However, the next briefing will be on 9 March and we should all be there to help him in every way we can to ensure he receives the necessary €43 million in funding to which the Government committed in the budget.

Senators O'Toole, Buttimer, Ó Murchú and Bradford discussed the responsibilities of trade unions. We want to help our trade union colleagues with the responsible way in which they are acting and are trying to lead their members during these difficult times. Social partnership must return. It has been the cornerstone of our success since 1987. Fianna Fáil can be proud of being the party that initiated social partnership alongside trade union members.