Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I will certainly seek a debate on the question of the Irish language and the funding model. I am glad the Senator said that a timescale is involved in this, but I am sure the Minister will attend the House to address those problems.

Senator Byrne is seeking a debate on the capital programme. The Government is not afraid to take tough decisions. We were elected by the people to sort out the mess, which is what we will do.

Senator Mullins mentioned problems with energy suppliers and sought clarity on the Landlord and Tenants Review Bill. I will find out for the Senator when that matter will be addressed.

Senator Walsh and other Members referred to the closure of embassies. We discussed this matter at length last week on the Order of Business. I will endeavour to have the Tánaiste attend the House shortly to address the many foreign affairs items that the House needs to discuss.

Senator Healy Eames raised problems which were a news item today in The Irish Times. I do not think we should believe everything we read in the newspaper. The Minister will be in the Chamber on Thursday and that matter can be addressed.

I have addressed the issue of appointments to State bodies raised by Senator Mullen. The criteria for appointment is ability and merit. Senator Coghlan raised the question of interest rates and was seeking that Bank of Ireland and Ulster Bank would follow the lead of AIB. We all agree with him and we will have a discussion on the matter this evening.

We can debate the matter raised by Deputy White on Thursday. Senator Ó Domhnaill raised the closure of embassies. I would be pleased if he could provide a list of embassies that we can close. I am sure the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade would welcome a copy of the list, if he has another list of embassies that could be closed.