Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Sheahan raised an important issue regarding a constituent of his and there seems to be discrimination regarding where the person lives in the context of receiving pain management. This is a matter that can be raised with the Minister for Health. It is disgraceful if people are discriminated against in receiving medical treatment because of where they live.

Senator Ó Murchú asked for a debate on the arts. When the Seanad resumes, the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Jimmy Deenihan, will attend the House. I also note the Senator's point about the unification of the two Tipperary county councils. A few weeks ago I did not want to hear much about Tipperary after Waterford's defeat in the Munster hurling championship.

Senator Eamonn Coghlan raised the report of a taskforce on how Ireland could take advantage of the London Olympics. When the Seanad returns would be an opportune time to have a debate on the benefit of sport. The Minister of State at the Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Deputy Michael Ring, is enthusiastic about his portfolio. I will invite him to the House to address the taskforce's report on how we can take advantage of next year's London Olympics.

I note Senator Barrett's point about metro north and St. Stephen's Green. I do not know what the decision will be on this matter.

Regarding Senator Mooney's point about the Abbey Theatre, I, along with many other Members, recently attended Brian Friels's Translations at the Abbey Theatre and was struck by the number of tourists at the performance. When I inquired further, I was informed tourists make up a sizeable number of ticket sales. The arts are a tourist attraction and that should not be lost on Colm McCarthy and others.