Ivana Bacik (Independent)

I should inform the House that Senator Leyden had to attend a committee meeting and conveyed his apologies to me. He asked when the constituency review would be published. I understand it has to be published by the end of June and we will have an opportunity to debate it then. The Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Phil Hogan, will be in the House for a debate on a local government Bill on 6 and 7 June.

Senator Catherine Noone welcomed the news in respect of the treaty negotiations last night, as did Senator Susan O'Keeffe. She also supported the call in respect of the merger of cultural and heritage institutions, an issue I have dealt with.

Senator Jillian van Turnhout referred to the cultural institutions. The Minister, Deputy Deenihan, will be in the House on 7 June for a debate.

Senator Marie Moloney raised the issue of the retirement of John Behan. We all join with the Senator in wishing Mr. Behan well in his retirement and thank him for all his work. She also mentioned the LauraLynn briefing. I agree with the Senator that a rescheduled briefing with the LauraLynn foundation, perhaps in the House, would be useful. We can facilitate a debate in which we would raise that issue.

Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh raised the matters of the cultural institutions and the Sinn Féin motion in the other House concerning Moore Street. The Senator also sought a debate on the stability treaty. We facilitated such a debate last Thursday and only 12 speakers, including myself, contributed. I discussed with the group leaders at the time the issue of having another debate this week. I was open to that and could have facilitated it. However, following last week's debate, all the group leaders agreed there was no need for another debate. As I said yesterday, next week we are better off out canvassing on whatever side. Neither House is sitting next week given the referendum takes place next week.

Senator Cáit Keane welcomed the comments of the National Treasury Management Agency. I was concerned at the information from the Senator that An Post has been asked to ensure no leaflets are included in the Referendum Commission booklet. I was not aware of that as an issue. I agree it is an issue that should be examined.

Senator Mary White raised the matter of Intel's choice to use Ireland as one of the three locations where it will manufacture its next generation of computer chips. That is very welcome and is a sign of confidence that we will maintain a stable and steady path to recovery.