Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I support Senator Susan O'Keeffe's request to the Leader. He will be concerned about the successful outcome of Maeve McGivern's case in London. I have no doubt that the Government and the Minister will see their way to providing transport for her. It has been a successful operation and we are all delighted with her progress. The family have gone through a very difficult time. The relevant authorities have now streamlined the transport of seriously ill patients. I know the Leader of the House will be sympathetic to this proposal. We should all agree that the Government jet should be made available because of the danger of infection in planes, as Senators will be aware.

I support Senator Mary White's proposal concerning MBNA. I happen to be a contributor to MBNA so I feel I am in a strong position to say that it is an excellent company. It built up Carrick-on-Shannon and the surrounding areas. In addition, MBNA has been involved in all sorts of charitable organisations supporting schools and educational development generally. It is an outstanding company and I am sorry that the Bank of America has decided to get out of the credit card sector. Nobody is in a better position to speak about jobs than Senator White. She created sustainable jobs from nothing and they remain in County Meath.

The Minister should utilise the abilities of those in this House to assist in trade missions. Senator White would be an ideal addition to a trade mission to the United States or elsewhere, as would other Members of the House. Senator Clune also referred to the MBNA situation, so I hope there will be a successful outcome because it is extremely grave.