Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Catherine Noone referred to yesterday's flooding in the capital and throughout the country which caused great hardship for many. I am sure all Members wish to extend sympathy to the families of Garda Ciaran Jones and the woman from the Philippines who lost their lives in the floods.

Senator Michael Mullins referred to the preparedness of local authorities to deal with the effects of winter weather. In the next week or two the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Phil Hogan, will come before the House. The Senator can address his concerns about this matter to the Minister at that time.

Senator Pat O'Neill made an important point on food safety, particularly in the context of the importation of beef from other countries. Like Senator Paschal Mooney, I agree that we should take every opportunity to highlight the safety of Irish beef. I will raise this matter with the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

I must inform Senator Mooney that I am well aware of the atrocity which took place in Tramore many years ago. I refer to the murder, in front of his three year old son, of a man who was on holiday in the town at the time.

As stated, I do not propose to accept the amendment proposed to the Order of Business.