Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Be that as it may, there are difficulties being experienced at present time. I trust everyone can be assisted and helped in their great work, especially our nurses and doctors on the frontline. These are the staff who must get the support and be given priority in respect of funding as far as I am concerned and all colleagues in the House will agree with that.

Senator Keaveney called for a debate on drugs. I have no difficulty in holding a debate on this matter, especially in respect of head shops. Senator Buttimer called for the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport to provide an up-to-date position in respect of prioritising legislation in her Department. I will have this matter inquired into and I will come back to the House at a later date.

Senator Dearey called for a debate on economic recovery. As I stated, the Croke Park agreement will be discussed all day next Thursday. It is timely to hold such a debate on economic recovery and we can pencil it in on a future date afterwards. Senator Dearey also referred to the former Minister, Charlie McCreevy's appointment and the decision of the EU. One of the most experienced people in public life has always been the Minister for Finance because he or she knows everything that happens in every Government portfolio.