Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Fitzgerald, O'Toole, Alex White, Boyle, MacSharry, Coghlan and Buttimer all outlined their concerns about the Bill dealing with the election of the Dublin mayor. I understand it is at an advanced stage and if it is ordered to be taken in the Dáil, we will process it as soon as possible after it has been passed.

The Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill will be before the House before the summer recess. It is one of the most important Bills of the year and will be included in the Order Paper to be taken in the next two or three weeks.

The British Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced in the budget in the United Kingdom increases in VAT, made provisions on bank levies and stipulated that banks will pay the cost of regulation. Strong views have been expressed here about the €40 million it cost last year, with a possible €50 million cost this year. Most fair-minded people would say this sector, like all others, should have to pay the cost of its regulation. It is good practice and I support the call made by many colleagues today.

Senators Boyle and Feeney asked for a debate on mental health services. I also compliment the Minister of State, Deputy John Moloney, on the great work he is doing. He secured a budget allocation in difficult times and I support him in all possible ways. I will have no difficulty in asking him to update the House on the progress he is making. Great strides are being made. I welcome the new 105 bed unit at St. Mary's Hospital in Mullingar where the Minister of State laid the foundation stone. I fully agree with the Deputy Leader and Senator Feeney and we will do whatever can to support the Minister of State in the great work the Government is doing. I will arrange a further debate on the issue at the earliest possible time.