Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

On the proposal regarding the First World War, many of us had a grand parent or grand uncle who fought in that war. The commemoration of those people could also be included in the celebrations. As Senator Daly suggested, the President will lead the commemoration in Arbour Hill next Wednesday morning and I will check if it will be possible to have a debate on this matter next Wednesday evening or late that night.

Senator MacSharry called again for a debate on the HSE and its prevention of informing members of the public of matters of which they are entitled to be informed. I have given a commitment that such a debate will take place as soon as possible.

Senators Walsh and Mary White expressed strong views regarding the 32 survivors following the use of the thalidomide drug and the hope that when the Minister receives members of the deputation today that they will receive a positive and sincere response that we all know they people so richly deserve.

Senator Buttimer called for a debate on the role of politics in our country and I have no difficulty in arranging such a debate.

Senators Callely and John Paul Phelan called for a debate on the food supply chain which, as Senator Callely correctly pointed out, is worth €25 billion to the country every year. In terms of CAP reform, the retail sector and food labelling, I gave a commitment to the House last week that I will arrange for an all-day debate, with the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in attendance, in the very near future, on the importance of agriculture and food and the challenges facing this sector in the next five years.

Senators Norris and Cummins raised the Shell to Sea issue and Senator Norris expressed one viewpoint regarding the people involved while Senator Cummins expressed strong support for the Garda report and the endeavours and hard work being carried out by the Garda Síochána. I fully support Senator Cummins's acknowledgment of that, as I am sure would all other Members.