Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Last night we had an interesting and informative debate on how the Seanad could be made more effective and more relevant to the general needs of the people, especially in the changing circumstances we are experiencing. It was a well-informed debate, drawing from the expertise and vision of many contributors. It was interesting that so many were offering to participate in the debate that it has been rolled over to another date. I do not know how other Members feel, but I think the public is oblivious to what happened here last night. That is sad. I put it to the Leader that one of the reasons this is happening is that the Private Members' motion is the last business on a Wednesday night when most news stories are already put to bed. My experience is that debates on a Wednesday night are generally topical and relevant. In many ways the issues are debated in an enthusiastic manner. Perhaps the Committee on Procedure and Privileges might consider changing the time of the Private Members' motion to a time in the early morning in order that there would be a possibility of the issues raised getting out into the public domain. We owe that to the public. Otherwise what will happen is that the media will continue to say the Seanad is not focused. We were very focused last night but it is not the fault of Members if the public is not aware of that.

With the permission of the Cathaoirleach, I would like to revisit the urgent situation of the 49 medical staff who are held captive in Bahrain. It look as if the trials of the 49 medical staff will be held very soon. There is a grave danger that executions might result in this case. Ireland is an honest broker in the eyes of the world and people generally listen to the views that come from the country. I hope the Leader will be able to inform me on the updated position in Bahrain. I would like to reiterate a point I made here the other morning. We have a particularly potent and powerful conduit with Bahrain through the Royal College of Surgeons. The college has agreed particularly lucrative contracts with that regime to provide courses and qualifications. Perhaps I might mention, to make it relevant to Ireland, that three of those who are missing at the moment studied in Ireland. To my knowledge, only one surgeon - there may be more - has come out publicly on this issue. Given that we passed a comprehensive all-party motion, I would like to think we can act on this urgently. I have probably exceeded my time, so I thank the Cathaoirleach for his indulgence.