Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Norris, Ellis and Harris referred to the serious plight of the owners of taxis over nine years old. Most Members will be aware that decent cars are good for 15 years. Therefore, the proposal made does not make sense. I will send a strong message to the Minister urging him to contact the taxi regulator on the matter, particularly at this difficult time when, as many Members are aware from their weekly clinics, it is not easy to obtain funds or finance to purchase another car.

I agree fully with Senator Norris who called for safety audits to be carried out on farms. Such a measure is essential and crucial because, unfortunately, many people are involved in fatal accidents on farms. I understand 23 people have lost their lives on farms this year.

On Senator Ellis's call for a debate on employment with Enterprise Ireland and the IDA, I compliment Enterprise Ireland on organising its conference in Croke Park today and the opportunities it is trying to create. I will have no difficulty with Members debating this issue also.

Senator Cannon raised the issue of flooding and referred to the plight of people living along the River Shannon and, in particular, the dreadful experience endured by the people of County Cork last year. In respect of those families whom it might be necessary to relocate, €8 million in funds is available. I will convey the Senator's strong views in this regard to the Minister.

Senator Mooney raised the issue of the illegal downloading of music and the fallout from the recent court case. I understand a legislative amendment to the Act is needed, for which the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation is responsible. The industry is fighting to ensure its survival and I hope the Minister will address the matter in the coming days. If he does not do so, the House will have debate its merits. To command the respect of the industry, we must take the position adopted by our near neighbours, the United Kingdom and France. However, this is not happening and a serious problem has emerged, as a result of which the multinationals which are large employers will be obliged to consider their position in Ireland. Irish songwriters, artists, publishers and record companies are all working with their backs to the wall and not being given the tools they need. I support fully the legislative position adopted in the United Kingdom and France and believe the Minister should address the issue as a matter of urgency.

Senator Mullen called for the provision of a BreastCheck service for women aged over 64 years. I fully support him in this regard and will have no difficulty in arranging a debate on the issue which Senator Mary White has been championing in the House for many years.

Senator Harris called for a debate on multiculturalism. This proposal is very worthwhile and I will endeavour to have this debate take place.

Senator Corrigan asked for a debate on the vulnerable under the care of the Department of Justice and Law Reform, and I have no difficulty in having that debate. Senator Hanafin called for a debate on employment opportunities, particularly in relation to wind turbines, farming and other areas. I understand that instead of these products being manufactured elsewhere in Europe, they are being manufactured in Galway. Demand this year and the anticipated number of units to be manufactured was 60, but by the end of June the company had manufactured and erected 80 units. I wish it well. The way forward is to cut our dependence on oil for energy, and I fully support the call by Senator Hanafin. I also note his references to the misuse of passports.

Senator MacSharry called for a debate on "the big four", namely, taxation, social welfare, health and education. I have had this in mind, and I respond positively that this will take place over the coming weeks.

Senator Cummins outlined the great work the Jack & Jill Children's Foundation is doing and the difficulty it is experiencing - he mentioned a figure of €1.3 million. The problem is that many children it is looking after will have to go into long-term care, which will cost the State much more. I compliment the Jack & Jill Children's Foundation and the personnel who are doing their utmost and I will do anything I can and will make representations after the Order of Business to the Minister to see what I can do to help in that regard.

Senator Ó Brolcháin called for a debate on the world economy. I have no difficulty in having this take place.

I heard the interview this morning on "Morning Ireland" with Senator Harris. I listened with great attention to him. I place on record that Senators have taken a 10% cut already in our wages. That was not pointed out this morning. The presenter said we were on a salary of €70,000, but we are no such thing. As we all know we have taken a 10% cut as the Taoiseach requested and we did it in the national interest.