Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Kelly raised the issue of medical cards. This is a serious matter. Community welfare officers have discretion in this matter and it can be taken up with the Minister for Health and Children.

Senator Byrne referred to WikiLeaks. Some interesting leaks have been published in newspapers. Exchanges of information between governments and reporting by diplomatic missions is an important aspect of the formulation of foreign policy and the conduct of international relations. This type of activity by diplomatic services takes place in every country. It is done for a variety of reasons, including political and commercial. It is important that such exchanges take place. However, it is not the intention of the Tánaiste to comment on the publication of the United States diplomatic cables.