John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

Moreover, the House also has not had a debate in recent weeks on Anglo Irish Bank. Senator Coghlan raised an important point, which is that the European Commission reverted to the Government with 101 questions pertaining to its proposals in respect of Anglo Irish Bank. Members also should have a discussion on this issue as soon as possible.

I believe Senator Coghlan made a mistake previously when he seconded an amendment to the Order of Business that had not been proposed, namely, to have a discussion on accident and emergency facilities in regional hospitals nationwide. I second that particular amendment. Proposals have been drawn up by the HSE that appear to have been put on the shelf in recent weeks. It is apparent that the heads of many of the sections within the HSE are familiar with the proposals with regard to the closure of accident and emergency facilities nationwide but politically, for some reason, they have been shelved and there should be a full discussion in this regard at the earliest opportunity.