Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

We held a debate in the House last night on law and order and a resolution concerning the Criminal Justice (Amendment) Act 2009. The Minister is strong on law and order. He moved a resolution dealing with section 8 which was renewed last night. He has also given a firm commitment that if further legislation is necessary to combat this appalling crime, he will address the matter. For now there is sufficient legislation in place to deal with the problems posed. I join Senator Darragh O'Brien and others in expressing sympathy to the family of the person killed.

Senators Ivana Bacik, Rónán Mullen and Paul Bradford referred to the implications of the ABC case and raised the question of abortion. The expert group dealing with the matter will report and I assure the House we will hold debate on the subject when it does.

Senator Ivana Bacik mentioned Mr. Toland. The Minister of State with responsibility for European affairs will be in the House next week to discuss European affairs.

Senator Paul Coghlan referred to the proposed national children's hospital. The Minister is reviewing the matter and a review committee has been set up to consider the Mater hospital site. The Government is totally committed to the building of a national children's hospital which will commence long before the term of the Government is completed.

Senator David Norris has long been the champion in the House of Bloomsday. Bloomsday would not be celebrated were it not for Joyce, but the Senator has been flying the flag for it in the House and throughout the country for many years.