Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senators Martin Conway and John Kelly asked about renegotiating GP and consultant contracts and called for a debate on health in respect of medical cards. We can have that debate in the context of the pre-budget submission next week. Everything is on the table. The country is in a deplorable state and many cuts will have be taken in every Department, as I have said on numerous occasions. That is just a fact of life at present.

Senator John Crown asked about special needs assistants. I will try to get information for the Senator on that issue. We agree with the point he made yesterday that gagging orders should not be applied in settlements where public bodies are concerned. I agree with his assumption in that regard. Senator Paul Bradford called for a debate on intolerance by the media towards people who are practising their religion. It may be possible to arrange a debate on that issue in conjunction with a number of other issues in regard to the media.

Senator Brian Ó Domhnaill referred to the role of the Revenue Commissioners. In regard to the individual case he mentioned, perhaps he would submit that for an Adjournment debate. While the Senator had issues with Customs and Excise, Customs and Excise should be complimented on its excellent work in the seizure of contraband goods, drugs and diesel laundering in recent months. It plays a very important role. All the officers involved should be complimented and thanked by the House on the work in that regard.

Senator Mary White referred to the advances in cancer care. That is an issue about which the public should be informed. I am sure Senator John Crown would enlighten us on that issue, whether in this House or in the audio-visual room, by making a presentation to us on the advances in cancer care and where we are going in that regard. That would be welcomed by Members of both Houses.

Senator Michael D'Arcy raised the issue of two Libyan citizens who are taking up positions in the national government of Libya. I think that-----