Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I was surprised the Senator did not mention those jobs and welcome them when she was speaking.

Senators Keaveney, Ross, MacSharry, Daly and Glynn outlined again the shocking tragedy of some of our best people losing their lives as a result of the abuse of drugs. I have no difficulty in allowing a debate. I remind colleagues that the Appropriation Bill will be discussed in the House on Friday. All 14 Departments and their expenditure can be debated and discussed under the heading of the Appropriation Bill.

Senator Ó Brolcháin asked for a debate on politics in general and he expressed his concerns regarding the perception of the body politic. I have already given a commitment to hold this debate and it can take place in the near future. Senator Norris asked for a debate on the protection of whistleblowers. I have no difficulty in having this debate. Senator Ivor Callely outlined to the House the universal periodic review of human rights by the United Nations. This is a significant innovation by the United Nations. It was established in 2006 to replace the United Nations Commission on Human Rights. The domestic human rights records of 192 United Nations member states are reviewed every 40 years. A total of 48 countries are reviewed each year beginning from 2008, with 16 reviews currently taking place. Ireland will be one of these 16 states to be reviewed. Ireland's first review under the universal periodic review will take place on 6 October 2011. I have no difficulty in arranging a debate on this in the near future.

Senator Hanafin outlined the loss of revenue because of cigarette smuggling by those heavily involved in the drugs world. I have no difficulty in having that debate. Cigarette smuggling assists gangs and I support the call for a debate on the loss of revenue and illegal drug money. Senator Ó Murchú asked for a debate on the murder of Pat Finucane. This man did so much for the people of the North of Ireland. Senator Ó Murchú called for the establishment of an independent inquiry. Such an inquiry would be an acknowledgement of the miscarriage of justice that took place. His family live with the significant stress and strain of losing a very brilliant father, husband and man. He defended people in very difficult times over that 30-year period. His memory deserves an inquiry, as does his family. I have no difficulty in the House debating and discussing this matter. There has been an international outcry for an inquiry and I support Senator Ó Murchú's call.

Senator Harris outlined to the House his very strong views on the courage of the former Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform and Attorney General, Mr. Michael McDowell. He is a courageous person. I was a Member of the other House from 2002 to 2007. I often referred in that House to the courage of the then Minister. It was impressive to see the groups he faced up to, whether in the dock or in the North of Ireland. He was an outstanding man in his portfolio. I fully agree with Senator Harris's views-----