Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Conway commented on the privatisation of Eircom which was a botched job. Senators Moloney and Kelly raised the issue of medical cards. I fully agree that a major problem remains in delays with medical cards. The fact that information is not being matched with files is something which occurs on a regular basis. I am unsure how it is occurring but the system is not working as it should at the moment. It may be working for the majority but it is unusual that many Members in this House are witnessing problems on a daily basis. Senator Landy remarked on the Order of Business that the people dealing with medical cards would be coming to the Houses of the Oireachtas to explain the situation. I will check this with Senator Landy and the relevant Minister to establish the position.

Senator Daly spoke of a democratic deficit. I am pleased that he welcomes the constitutional convention to address the democratic deficit. Senators O'Keeffe and Crown spoke of the death of journalists in Syria. We all offer our deepest sympathies. Perhaps when the Tánaiste is in the House again we will arrange a wide-ranging debate on foreign affairs to include events in Syria and other conflicts in many countries can be discussed as well.

Senator Crown also referred to the question of bed shortages which I will raise with the Minister. Senator Colm Burke raised the matter of DEIS programme schools and the fact that 235 jobs will be saved. I am sure everyone welcomes this development.

Senator MacSharry called for a debate on procurement. The Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Bruton, will be in the House on 6 March and the matter can be raised with him then. Senator Reilly raised the issue of youth unemployment. Since she asked me in the nicest possible way I will reply to her in the nicest possible way, as I always do when it comes to Senator Reilly. The Minister, Deputy Bruton, will be in the House on 6 March and it would be good to raise the issue with the Minister at that stage. Senator Reilly is correct to suggest that youth unemployment is a major problem. We have heard good news in recent days and the PayPal announcement and other forthcoming announcements will help to address youth unemployment. I agree there should be an overall policy - there is - but the issue can be addressed with the Minister then.

Senator Cullinane called for inclusivity in the constitutional convention and I am sure that is what will happen. I have addressed the question of the Seanad in that regard. Senator White called for the Taoiseach to come to the House. It is not customary for a Taoiseach to come to the House.