Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I will not arrange a discussion as several discussions have been organised in the AV room by various Members on various sides. I have enough to do to arrange a debate in the House. I fully agree with Senator Norris that we should have a reasonable debate devoid of bitterness and division. That is all I wish to say on the subject at this point.

Senator Landy referred to billing for fire brigade charges for those who do not call out the service. We will raise the matter with the Minister and try to get another result for him from the Minister on the matter. Senator Landy seems to be so successful himself that I am inclined to leave it to him.

Senator Mac Sharry raised the issue of the insolvency Bill. I have said the heads of the Bill have been discussed at length by the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality. All Members should inform themselves of the contents of the hearings. Senator Mullins spoke about the maintenance of trucks and oil spillages. I dealt with that in my reply to Senator Quinn and Senator Norris.

Senator Wilson inquired about the review of community employment schemes. I will endeavour to find out when the review will be published and I will revert to the Senator on it. On local government reform, I am sure that when the Cabinet has discussed it we can have a debate in the House on the matter. Despite what has been said about the absence of the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Hogan, for the past two months, he has probably been in this House more often than any other Minister on many subjects and pieces of legislation.

Senator Kelly referred to medical referees and the fact that 50% of the appeals are overturned. We can make those points to the Minister when he comes to the House. Senator Moloney mentioned the Jigsaw programme. Senator Moran also called for a debate on youth mental health. The Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch, has been most active in that regard. She has come to the House on several occasions to discuss the matter. If necessary, I am sure she will be willing and available to come back to the House to discuss this serious matter.

Senator Moran also raised the issue of retired teachers being employed in supervision of State examinations. I totally agree with her sentiments. Graduates and unemployed teachers should get priority in that regard. I am sure she has made representations to the Minister for Education and Skills on the matter. I will press the matter with him also.