Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senator O'Donovan referred to the greyhound Bill. The business of the House is ordered well in advance; everybody receives the schedule for the following week on the previous Thursday. That will continue to be the case.

Senators O'Donovan and Carty called for another debate on the fishing industry. I have no difficulty with that proposal and will endeavour to ensure the debate takes place before the summer recess.

I will convey to the Minister the strong views expressed by Senator Keaveney. With regard to the issues raised by Senator McFadden, I will see what I can do and reply to the Senator on the Order of Business tomorrow morning.

Senator Walsh called for a debate on competitiveness. I will arrange such a debate.

Senator Dearey spoke about the debate on health issues due to resume in the presence of the Minister next week and issues of concern in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda. The Minister can update the Senator and the House in that regard next week.

Senators Phelan and Corrigan sought a debate on carers and the elderly. Senator Corrigan has asked for such a debate on many occasions in the last few weeks. This will be the closing debate in the House on Wednesday, 14 July, before the summer recess.

Senators Mullen, Ó Murchú, Ross and Hanafin expressed their strong views on free speech and defended the right of church leaders to express their views on the difficulties being experienced in various areas. I fully support this. Senator Ross also called for a free vote on the Civil Partnership Bill. Other Senators also spoke on the issue. The Bill will be brought before the House before the summer recess. I will inform Members next week when it will take place.

Senator Callely spoke about briefing documents relating to the health portfolio. To my knowledge, all briefing documents can be easily accessed in the Oireachtas Library and on the Internet. However, I will make inquiries about the matter the Senator has brought to my attention today.