Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

He is a wonderful ambassador for the sport. I welcome the support of Senator Mary White on water charges and the household charge. She referred to yesterday's meeting of Local Authority Members Association, who expressed the concerns of local authorities with regard to proposed changes and local government reform. I will endeavour to have the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Hogan, the House to address these matters. Local democracy is important for everyone and the Minister should come into the House to discuss his plans.

Senators Moran and Ó Murchú referred to the importance of the Fleadh Ceoil as an all-Ireland cultural events. We agree with that and music transcends barriers. I was involved with the Waterford International Festival of Light Opera for many years. During the Troubles, societies from different traditions such as Belfast Operatic Company and St. Agnes' Choral Society could enjoy themselves in Waterford but when they went back to Belfast and it is possible they could not speak to each other. Music is very important and the importance of the Fleadh Ceoil cannot be overstated.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh referred to the development of natural resources. The Fine Gael group will table a Private Members' motion next week dealing with energy and natural resources, including wind and wave energy. The point can be debated when the Minister is in the House.

Senator Crown referred to Dublin as the city of science in 2012, which we all welcome. He also raises an important point about the derecognition of medical schools whose students study for five years. The EU intends introducing a six-year requirement, which must be referred to the relevant Ministers. Senator Ó Domhnaill referred to the lack of credit and the role of banks, which I already referred to. Senator Moloney referred to the future of a clinic in County Kerry. Perhaps the Senator can raise the matter on the Adjournment and will get a good response.