Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senator Buttimer raised issues of concern he had on the dog Bill. I note those. Senators Walsh and Healy-Eames spoke about banking, matters affecting hard-pressed mortgage holders, and in particular the concerns of people with tracker mortgages. I certainly welcome that, and they also dealt with the difficulties presented by additional interest being added as penalties. This is completely unfair and it is unacceptable, particularly in relation to the demands of Members of the Oireachtas as representatives of the people who are funding the banks at the present time. Anything to do with helping the hard-pressed mortgage holders, particularly those who are unemployed and are finding it very difficult for the first time in their life, is to be welcomed. These comprise the future generation that we have to protect and assist. All sides of the House are united on this and I certainly will pass on the strong views of the Seanad after the Order of Business.

Senators Quinn, Hanafin and Ó Murchú talked about the value of the Irish passport and noted how respected we are throughout the world as Irish men and women if we hold an Irish passport. I certainly agree with everything that has been said this morning in this regard and will pass on the views of Members. If the Minister wishes to update the Seanad on difficulties experienced with the Israelis involved in the use of Irish passports, I certain have no difficulty in making time available.

Senator Mary White called for an urgent debate on alcohol marketing. The Senator outlined alarming and disturbing figures to the House this morning: some 37% of boys between 15 and 17 have got drunk in the past month; some 41% of girls between 15 and 17; and 12% of girls from 12 to 14. These are shocking statistics being brought to the attention of the House this morning, and certainly this requires urgent action. The Minister for Health and Children will come to the House on two occasions and this issue should be brought to her attention to see how it may be dealt with in a responsible and urgent manner. I thank Senator White for bringing this to the attention of the House.

Senator John Hanafin stated that the IMF, the OECD and the various other respected organisations throughout the financial world recognise the way the Government is dealing with the challenge to our financial status in the world. I certainly concur. When we leave Ireland we find everyone is saying how good Ireland is at dealing with the issues head-on, and I should like to think-----