Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Michael D'Arcy raised the issue of post office robberies throughout the country. In that regard, there is a need for a debate on law and order issues. Debates have been sought on various issues relating to the Department of Justice and Equality. The Minister will come before the House next week to discuss renewing the terms of the Offences against the State Act. He will also come before the House to discuss law and order issues and, I hope, the report of the Inspector of Prisons in the coming weeks.

I am sure we would all like, with Senator Feargal Quinn, to congratulate NUI, Maynooth. As he stated, it is good to have good news. He also raised a number of matters relating to the Minister for Justice and Equality, including the Coroners Bill and the cost of people being remanded. In that regard, he suggested the use of video links. It is an excellent idea on which we can arrange a debate with the Minister.

Senator Paul Bradford called for a discussion on the progress report on the Croke Park agreement. The previous Seanad discussed this issue and we can certainly arrange another debate on it.

Senator John Kelly raised the issue of the banks with regard to restructuring loans and people having to pay an additional 1% without knowing this because they did not read the small print. I am sure the Minister for Finance, Deputy Michael Noonan, would be delighted for this issue to be raised during discussions on the Finance (No. 2) Bill in a fortnight.

Senator Rónán Mullen raised another important item - the quality of end of life care. Next week the two Ministers of State at the Department of Health will come before the House to deal with a number of matters, including the fair deal nursing homes scheme on which last week Members called for a debate. There will also be statements on primary care. I advise Members that these items will be discussed next week having been requested last week.

Senator Jimmy Harte raised the issue of road signage. This matter urgently needs to be addressed and we will raise it with the Department and the Minister.

Senators Brian Ó Domhnaill and Trevor Ó Clochartaigh called for a debate on the Irish language. We have acceded to this request and the debate will be held this week. Senator Ó Domhnaill also discussed the fishing industry, on which there is a need for a debate. However, after three days I have received requests for a debate on approximately 30 items. We will do our best to fit in as many as we can.