Camillus Glynn (Fianna Fail)

Some time ago, I complained in the Chamber about the loss of a dermatologist from the Midland Regional Hospital Mullingar. I am pleased to advise the House that a replacement has been found. Dr. Barbara Wynne commenced duty in the hospital last Monday. She has a staff of two, including a secretary and a nurse, and will have back-up from St. James's Hospital.

Will the Leader arrange for a debate on diabetes with the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Harney? This is not the first time I have raised this issue in the House. I raised it on many occasions during the last session. I ask that the Leader, in co-operation with Senator Feeney, our spokesperson on health, would arrange for a long and meaningful debate on diabetes. I spoke recently to a general practitioner who told me that he discovers, on average, two new diabetics every day he practises, which is a frightening statistic. I do not propose to discuss in detail the implications of the condition and will withhold my comments until the debate takes place. I hope it will be held early in the session because during the previous Seanad I sought a debate on the issue for more than two years. It was eventually held, but only 75 minutes were provided for it and I believe only one spokesperson from each side had speaking time. One Senator, in particular, the late Kate Walsh, was very exercised about this at the time. I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on the issue as soon as possible.