Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Walsh spoke about payments and reform of the public service. This will be dealt with in the debate next week.

Senator O'Keeffe inquired about the capital allocation funds in the Department of Health. We will endeavour to find out when the announcement will be made on these capital allocations.

Senator Burke asked about disseminating information to the public and informing people on how their taxes are spent. Perhaps this can be included in a debate in the near future.

It was interesting to hear Senator Byrne's comments in support of Europe and his total opposition to the fiscal treaty. Again, we will discuss this next week.

As he did yesterday, Senator Sheahan called for a debate on people's lifestyles and eating habits with regard to diabetes. The Seanad Public Consultation Committee will partially deal with this in its next area of examination.

With regard to the issue raised by Senator Mooney, the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Rabbitte, will come to the House for the Private Members' debate and perhaps Senator Mooney can raise the issue then. The Minister will also come to the House to deal with the Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill next week. I am sure Senator Mooney will have an opportunity to raise the issue then.

Senator Michael D'Arcy spoke about a television programme broadcast last night not giving sufficient information. We will see what we can do with regard to this.

To respond to Senator White, it has not been the practice of any Taoiseach to come to the House for questions and answers. I am sure the Taoiseach will come to the House if he sees fit to do so in his own time.