Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Bacik asked about the sexist advertising for night clubs on Facebook being a matter for the Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland. I will raise this matter with the Minister, Deputy Rabbitte, to ascertain if there is an intention to introduce legislation in that regard.

I agree with Senator Barrett that letters of comfort or promissory notes are a devastating matter for Ireland. This is a very expensive arrangement for the Irish taxpayer and is currently under negotiation with the troika. It is to be hoped that we can find a less expensive alternative arrangement than that negotiated previously. The Minister for Finance, Deputy Noonan, is making progress in ongoing negotiations. The troika and the Minister are working through the technicalities and we hope for a good result for the country in that regard.

Senators Comiskey, Mooney, Ó Murchú, Mullins, Paul Coghlan and others, asked about ministerial travel abroad for St. Patrick's day. As has been stated, the country could not buy the publicity it receives from St. Patrick's Day. As Members have stated, it is of paramount importance that our Ministers are abroad promoting our country and letting it be known that the country is open for business. I can assure Senator Mooney that the shamrock will be presented by the Taoiseach in a Waterford crystal bowl, as was the custom for many years in the past.