Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

The Senator's guess is as good as mine. Senator Quinn emphasised the need to be positive. He pointed to the success of the "Malaysia My Second Home" initiative. He suggested we should target our friends in the United States in that context. He also referred to the success of our exports, which I have mentioned. I will pass the Senator's strong views on to the Minister.

Senators Healy Eames, Coghlan and Phelan spoke about the Hunt report which deals with issues that have been outlined in the House. It is right and fitting that we should ask everyone to support the report. We should do everything possible to ensure our work, especially our printing, is done in Ireland. When we are setting up websites, for example, all the work should be done in Ireland, where possible. We should all try to lead by example in this area, if that is a possibility.

Senator Mullen referred to alternatives to prison sentencing. He criticised the use of St. Patrick's Institution for the detention of juvenile prisoners and referred to the reform of the prison sentencing system. I fully support what he said. We had a very good debate on the matter late last year. I support the Senator's request.

Senator Mullen also mentioned the Student Support Bill 2008, which will be discussed in the House this afternoon. The Tánaiste is ready to come into the House for the debate and is waiting to do so.

Senator Mullen also responded to comments made by the Minister, Deputy Gormley. I agree with the Senator that church leaders should be allowed to express their views freely. I have always fully supported church leaders of all faiths. They should be allowed to address and lead their congregations. That is what they are there for. I fully support that. My local parish priest in Castlepollard, Fr. Moore, gave a very strong sermon on this subject last Sunday.