Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

The issue of the Magdalene laundries will be considered by the Government this week. I will facilitate a debate on it and the Minister is anxious that we debate it.

Senator Coghlan referred to the clarification by the chairman of NAMA. I do not wish to comment any further on that matter.

On the comments of Senator Ó Murchú, we had an all-party motion last week. I have not received the report to date but will make representations to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and update the House on the motion.

Senator Kelly spoke about Roscommon hospital and the reduction in accident and emergency hours. As has been pointed out, there is an Adjournment motion on the issue and I hope he will get some time to deal with it today.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh referred to tolls and was not aware that we were paying the toll company for the lack of use of the road. It was news to me. I travelled from Cork this morning and paid two tolls, a total of €3.80 which is the going rate. If one is not paying tolls from the west at the current time one is very lucky.

Senator Sheahan raised the issue of psychiatric services and mental health. We should arrange to have a debate on that matter and on the closure of old and unsuitable buildings. The Minister will come before the House for such a debate.

Senator Conway referred to the issue of gambling. There are proposals to amend the 1956 Act and a report and recommendations were issued in 2009 on gaming and betting. It is a major problem for society; about that there is no question. We will have a betting Bill to deal with gambling, in particular online gambling, before the close of this session but, if not, it will be in the House within the next couple of months.