Ned O'Sullivan (Fianna Fail)

This Chamber attracts much criticism from the media and the general public and the leader of one of the main parties wants to abolish it. I would like to report some positive news about it. First, I thank the Leader who receives more than his fair share of abuse. He responded promptly and proactively on the matter of employment in north Kerry which I raised last Wednesday. He said he would arrange an urgent debate on the issue the following day. That decision by him exercised many minds at high levels and before the day was out a statement had been issued on the ongoing problem by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Gormley. Next week officials from the Chief State Solicitor's office will meet legal representatives of the promoters of the project. This indicates great clarity on what was a big muddle, for which I thank the Leader.

Several months ago I raised the matter of pilfering in the postal service in Munster. There had been widespread reports of money and valuable items going astray in the post and the issue was picked up in the media. I am glad to report An Post engaged in covert surveillance of the service in Munster and last week newspapers reported that the surveillance had been fruitful, that at least one arrest had been made and a file sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions. People are also finding that their post is getting to its destination. The House, therefore, can be useful to the public in practical ways and as such, we should not talk ourselves down.