Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Norris spoke of maintaining the dignity of the House. I certainly will do everything possible to maintain the dignity of the House at all times. I can referee slagging matches on both sides, but there is little I can do about it. He spoke in favour of a future debate on the principles behind the motion on International Democracy Day, which is something that we will arrange. Probably, we will have the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade in to discuss that and many other foreign affairs matters. We have not had the Tánaiste in yet and we will try to have him in during this session.

On the ESB and charges, I am not in a position to give any guarantees on the charges for future years. Senator Mullins and others raised the question of septic tanks. The Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Hogan, has given clarification on the matter and I am sure this clarification will be welcomed by all right-thinking people.

Senators Ó Clochartaigh and Mullen sought a debate on the arts. We will have the debate on the arts next week. The Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Deenihan, is looking forward to the occasion. I understand there is also a briefing from those involved in the arts the day before on that matter.

The Senator also sought clarification and proposed an amendment to the Order of Business on a clarification regarding the job losses at MFG. Probably, it should have been the subject of an Adjournment motion and I do not propose to amend the Order of Business for a debate on the matter. It is a serious matter for all of the 130 workers involved, but the Senator should take it up with the Minister or put down an early Adjournment motion for next week where it can be discussed.