Feargal Quinn (Independent)

Senators Mooney and Donohoe reminded us of the positive attitude we should be taking and Senator O'Toole also reminded us of the good news on the employment and export figures and the fact we are the best and most attractive country for foreign direct investment. I mention this because we cannot say these things often enough. We hear enough negativity and we can do something about it. Senator O'Toole mentioned Siemens Ireland and the offer of something like €1 billion which would achieve a huge amount of savings in terms of water rates.

Last night's debate and decision were eventful. I am anxious to know from the Leader what will happen about it. Is it the case that we will nod our heads, say it is interesting and not do anything about it? We cannot do that. If one is to show respect for this House one has to take into account that there was a vote last night which went in a particular way. It cannot be ignored and something should happen because the Seanad is in danger of being ignored on many other occasions.

On Saturday the mass of remembrance and thanksgiving for those who are involved in organ transplants to will take place in Corpus Christi in Dublin. I mention it because the figures published today by the British Medical Association, BMA, show Britain has had an increase in organ donation last year of 5%. It is ahead of us in the number of organ donations and transplants it has. We are in 15th place, compared to Norway which is first and Portugal which is second because they have taken steps to encourage organ donation.

The chief executive of the Irish Kidney Association pointed out that Norway is a wealthier country in Ireland and has the resources to have transplants, but Portugal is not. We had a debate two years and two months ago. The Minister, Deputy Harney, said she wanted time to consult before she introduced presumed consent and we have not had word back. Now is the time for the Leader to check with the Minister to find out what is happening. If she says we will not have presumed consent which the BMA is looking for in Britain at least we should know. We had the debate and it seemed to get very good attention but let us make sure the Seanad is not ignored again.