Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senator Coghlan called for an update on the Property Services (Regulation) Bill on Report Stage. I will come back to the House on that. Senator Mooney referred to rates and the need for buildings to be re-rated because the spirit of the Bill stated it should be done every five years. I believe this is a very urgent matter that must be addressed, especially in respect of the hotel sector, as pointed out in the meeting yesterday. I have a vested interest in this area and it is an area presenting great challenges at present. Rates represent a very substantial cost especially on hotels providing significant employment. I have no difficulty in allocating time for this.

Senators Bradford, Wilson and Ó Domhnaill called for a debate on Northern Ireland, which is timely. We will hold it before the end of the session. Senator Mullen referred to the issues of asylum and trafficking. I will have this included at the earliest possible time.