Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senator Cannon spoke about the "Prime Time Investigates" special on Limerick. We have discussed this issue in the House and I support his strong views on this, especially in respect of the new justice programme.

Senators Cannon, O'Toole, Alex White, Boyle and Coughlan all called for a debate on prisons. We have had a debate on prisons, but like education, it is a subject we must debate again at the earliest opportunity. I have no difficulty in allocating time to it in order that we can hear the new proposals on how to tackle the challenges facing those who offend. I am pretty familiar with the Canadian experience and I fully agree with what Senator Cannon said.

Senator Harris called for a debate on education and teaching skills. I have no difficulty in organising this, and I will try to have the debate in the first week back after the Christmas recess.