Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Ireland will be a shining example once again to the entire world of how a small energetic economy, properly led and taking the international advice, will get out of this global downturn.

Senators O'Toole, Bacik, Boyle, Hanafin, Quinn, O'Malley, Mooney, Buttimer and Dearey all voiced strong views regarding the judgment given yesterday. I will pass the views of colleagues on to the Minister and we certainly can debate the matter here on the floor of the House in the first two weeks back.

Senator Boyle, in his final remarks, spoke of confidence and being hopeful for a better chance in the year ahead and I certainly join him in those good wishes.

Senators Healy Eames and Ormonde called for a debate on education. I have no difficulty in having this take place. I accept I stated we were to have it this week but, because of so much legislation, I had to make a judgment call and I opted, with colleagues, for an up-date on the Croke Park agreement. I hope the Senators understand. I certainly will have it on the Order Paper within the first two weeks of coming back.

Senators Ellis, Coffey and Dearey raised the weather and the difficulties in which local authorities find themselves with, perhaps, shortages of salt. I too want to make a case for smaller towns and villages, as Senator Dearey stated yesterday morning, that the NRA would give the same priority to them as it gives to the larger towns and cities. Apart from keeping the roads safe for those who want to go to church or who want to go to the shops, retail and family businesses should be given the same chance as those located in the bigger towns.

Senator Norris raised animal welfare once again, and the horse industry. He quite correctly pointed out to the House the difficulties being experienced. I have no difficult in us having a debate on this with the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Senator Callely called for a debate on water, its cost and the importance of quality water. I have no difficulty discussing this also.

Senator Coghlan raised the transfer of the files to the DPP's office. I certainly await the developments that will take place in this area.

Senator Mary White raised the Irish Thalidomide 32 persons who were in with the Minister yesterday. We fully support the Senator, who has been a champion of these 32 persons.