Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

The Acting Leader of the Opposition, Senator Mooney, raised the matter of the policies of the IDA. He was supported in his comments by Senators Conway and O'Keeffe and others. I agree there has been a concentration of investment in Dublin, Cork and Galway to the detriment of other areas. However, the companies decide on their preferred locations. I agree that all areas should be given an equal opportunity and fair play should be practised. We must acknowledge the successes of the IDA with regard to foreign direct investment. Unemployment and job creation still remain the most important priorities for this Government and I will arrange a debate with the Minister, Deputy Bruton, after the summer recess. I agree with a number of the sentiments expressed by Senator Mooney.

Senator Bacik asked for a debate on the Middle East. I have already requested such a debate with the Tánaiste and I hope he will respond positively in the near future.

Senator Mary Ann O'Brien spoke about the importance of the not for profit and charity sector and the lack of regulation in that sector. She suggested the Charities Act should be revisited. I commend her very good comments in that regard. If she wished, the Senator could introduce a Private Members' Bill in order to address some of the points she raised. I will inquire whether the Government intends to revisit that legislation.

Senator Barrett referred to unqualified people teaching mathematics. I agree with the Senator's point. It is acknowledged there are significant problems in the teaching of mathematics as outlined by the National Competitiveness Council. Unqualified teachers are also teaching other subjects and this must be addressed. I will endeavour to have the Minister for Education an Skills come to the House to debate the report of the National Competitiveness Council with specific reference to the teaching of maths.

Senator O'Keeffe addressed the difficulties facing the IDA and she also spoke about the city of science. As Senator Quinn said, we had a very constructive debate with the Minister of State, Deputy Sherlock on that matter and it needs to be kept on the agenda.

In reply to Senator Ó Clochartaigh the Committee Stage of the Gaeltacht Bill will conclude at 4 p.m. today. It has taken 56 years for such a Bill and considering the progress on Committee Stage I think it will take another 56 years to complete it, in the way it has been dealt with-----