Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

A number of Senators asked about interest rate reductions. Yesterday I was asked that the Minister would attend the House. The Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, has agreed to attend next Tuesday to discuss the issue. The Taoiseach on behalf of the economic management committee spoke to the Financial Regulator. There is contact between the Government and Financial Regulator on an ongoing basis, which is a far cry from what existed under the previous Government as regards the regulation of banks, etc. It is appalling that some of these banks are not passing on the interest rate reductions and we will discuss the matter in full on Tuesday.

Senator Bacik and many other Senators spoke about Gaza. Yesterday I gave an update in good faith on what was going on. It is totally unacceptable that Irish citizens are treated in such an appalling manner. I hope the matter will be rectified today. The welfare of Irish citizens is paramount to the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. I hope the Irish citizens will arrive home safely today. The Tánaiste is doing everything possible to ensure that happens.

Senator Colm Burke spoke about the globalisation fund for the construction industry, which is a very important issue. It was used in the case of the Dell and Waterford Crystal workers. It is essential that the globalisation fund be rolled out for the construction industry. While it is unfortunate that there have been such delays, I hope that matter will also be rectified.

Senators Barrett, Mooney and others spoke about the need for proper assessment for the capital programme. This morning I spoke to the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Howlin, who indicated he is willing to attend the House. If he is not here next week, he will be here the following week to discuss the capital programme.

Senator Cullinane proposed an amendment to the Order of Business, which I do not propose to accept. I have outlined the situation on Gaza and I hope that will be acceptable to the Senator.

Senators Mullins and Noone spoke about obesity in young children and the below-cost selling of alcohol. I will arrange a debate in early course on that important subject.

Senator Sheahan spoke about nursing homes, and the community and voluntary hospitals. He referred to residential homes as opposed to nursing homes. We will ask the Minister for Health to get back to the Senator on the matter.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh spoke about MFG. The Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Hogan, clearly outlined the situation on Tuesday.