Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Sheahan referred to the cost of fuel. That is a matter which can be discussed with the Minister for Finance when he comes before the House.

I agree with Senator Walsh that the fiscal compact treaty will put in place a credible commitment to responsible budgeting. I assure him that the Government is committed to securing a deal on the promissory notes.

Senator Gilroy also referred to the referendum and is seeking proper, factual and informative comment during the debate relating to it. I am sure we all agree with the sentiments expressed by the Senator in that regard.

Senator Keane referred to the fact that today is International Rare Disease Day. There are over 250,000 people in this country who have rare diseases. It is important that when people are diagnosed with such diseases, the necessary drugs should be made available to them.

I assure Senator Ó Clochartaigh that the Government will consider the wording of the referendum carefully before it is put to the people. There will certainly be ample time available to discuss the treaty in its entirety.

Senator Hayden referred to the proposed referendum on children's rights. This will take place later in the year. The Government is completely committed to holding such a referendum and it will take place before the end of 2012. I agree with the Senator in respect of the anti-German sentiment among certain Members. It is regrettable that such sentiments were expressed.

Senator Hayden also called for a debate on housing and the construction industry. We are trying to arrange a debate with the Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Jan O'Sullivan, on that matter.

Senator MacSharry spoke passionately about the national cancer strategy. We engaged in a debate with the Minister for Health only a couple of weeks ago and the Senator posed questions to him at that point. Numerous individuals had requested that such a debate take place but when the Minister came before the House, only ten Members were present to ask questions.