Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senator Carroll referred to the 8 million cigarettes, with a value of €3.4 million, seized in his constituency of Louth and called for an urgent debate on the black economy and everything to do with smuggling. I will certainly give that issue priority in terms of debates because something must be done to address what is happening in that area, particularly in light of what Senator Carroll outlined to the House.

Senator Buttimer called for a debate on the VHI and asked that the Minister come to the House to allow us discuss the matter. I gave a commitment in that regard yesterday on the Order of Business.

Senator McFadden raised the issue of obesity and the provision of calorie charts in our restaurants, which is a very good idea. The Senator referred to "Operation Transformation", which has captured the interest of the nation. Many people are being encouraged to get back to fitness, and we want to support that in any way possible.

Senators Hanafin, Coghlan, Ó Brolcháin and Feeney raised the issue of Seanad reform, European scrutiny and having our MEPs come to the House. It was my intention that we would have that debate in this spring session. I will see if it is possible to provide time in which it can take place. I have no difficulty in agreeing to that.

Senator Mullen spoke about the Minister for Justice and Law Reform examining the new legislation on prostitution. I have no difficulty in taking that debate at the earliest possible time.

Senators MacSharry and Coghlan referred to employment and job creation. Senator MacSharry referred to gateway centres in Galway and Sligo, spatial strategies and asked that the Minister, Deputy Dempsey, would come to the House to discuss the capital expenditure, CAPEX, grants and to ensure they are maintained. This is a serious situation for these areas of Sligo, and Galway in particular. As Senator MacSharry stated, their very survival depends on the CAPEX grants and I fully support him on that. We will pass on his strong views to the Minister to see how we can assist in any way in that regard.

Senator Ó Murchú outlined the huge success of his experience in China and Shanghai and in particular outlined to the House what will take place on St. Patrick's Day in Tokyo, Japan. We will support in any way we can everyone representing Ireland at ministerial level as well as the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste and the President, given the good work they are doing in selling the message about all that Ireland has to offer and all that can be achieved from this.