Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I am sure we will have the support of the long-serving Members on the Independent benches in that regard. Senator Norris asked about metro north. I will make inquiries on the matter.

Senator Cummins raised the issue of the 400 prisoners who did not return to prison and are at large. He called for a debate on prisons. I will allocate time for this to take place.

Senator Hanafin asked for a debate on the retail trade. The retail sector is on its knees at present. It, too, employs huge numbers of people. Perhaps it can be raised in the debate on the Croke Park agreement later today or we can hold a special debate on it, if necessary.

I accept the points Senator Ross made about the Croke Park agreement and his call for a debate on CIE. There is no difficulty with having a debate on CIE. Senator O'Toole was very observant when he pointed to the opportunity of the transport issue being discussed in the House tomorrow. Perhaps Senator Ross can express some of his serious concerns then-----