John Ellis (Fianna Fail)

I congratulate the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Ó Cuív, for his actions in allowing miners who have serious health problems to be treated under the occupational injuries fund. I do not doubt that the families of those involved will appreciate that something has at last been done to deal with the matter.

Will the Leader consider arranging a debate on transport infrastructure before the summer recess? Our motorways have almost been completed and there is a need to ensure ongoing investment in the upgrading of our roads infrastructure. Certain sections of our major inter-urban routes need to be upgraded. I do not want to see a situation where no progress is being made in that regard. Work on the Mullingar-Dromid section of the N4 which was to have been the next major project should be pushed along. If we are to have proper regional development, providing a proper road infrastructure is imperative. The project mentioned would help to improve the infrastructure leading to the west and north west. It is imperative, therefore, that we debate the matter as soon as possible.