Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Colm Burke spoke about the importance of being positive and a perception abroad in that regard. He called for education in health care to be discussed when we are discussing matters with the Minister for Health, Deputy Reilly. I am sure he will take up that matter.

Senator Crown spoke about the deaths from malignant melanoma that could be prevented and referred to the cost of the drugs involved being €120,000. Such an amount is cheap when the cost of a life is concerned. If people can be saved by using these drugs, cost should not come into play. I am sure it is a matter on which the Senator will question the Minister, Deputy Reilly, when he comes into the House.

Senator Harte spoke about the notification by post of interest rate changes for mortgage holders. Fortunately it was good news in most cases with reductions in mortgage interest rates. I believe mortgage providers are obliged to notify customers by post. I can raise it with the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, when he comes into the House in the next week or two.

Senator Keane spoke about copyright and Internet piracy. I will request that the Minister of State, Deputy Sherlock, come to the House to explain his intentions in this regard. Senator Kelly asked what special bonuses were paid, a matter that probably should have come under the Croke Park agreement. The Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes will be in the House on 9 February to discuss that agreement and perhaps Senator Kelly can address his questions to the Minister of State at that time.

Senator White spoke about the possible closure of beds in public nursing homes, a matter she has raised previously. I agree that consultation should take place between the nursing homes and the HSE or HIQA, whatever the case may be. If it is not rectified in the meantime, I am sure she will have the opportunity on 14 February of raising those problems with the Minister.