Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Mary Ann O'Brien spoke about the sick pay proposals. As I have noted, the Minister, Deputy Burton, will be in the House on 11 October and I am sure she will address the issues raised. Senator Ó Domhnaill raised the specific issue of a gentleman in Donegal regarding whom I do not wish to elaborate further. Senator Colm Burke referred to a report on suicide in Cork which investigated the number of people who died by suicide after abusing alcohol. The Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy Shortall, will be available in September for a wide ranging debate on that issue. Senator Barrett set out a different point of view on alcohol. He can certainly make his argument during the debate with the Minister of State.

Senator Higgins again raised the issues affecting Ulster Bank. I am sure we all wish that full compensation will be paid to the customers who have been affected by the debacle. Senator Quinn spoke about price fixing by MasterCard and Visa in the USA. The Senator also raised this issue on previous occasions. I note his comments on sick pay. Senator Noone can raise the question of sponsorship of sports and the arts by alcohol companies during the debate in September with the Minister of State, Deputy Shortall.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh referred to a number of issues which will require further spending. I remind him that we continue to spend €15 billion more than what we are taking in. That will have to be addressed irrespective of what Government is in power. Requesting ad infinitum that additional funding be provided for various items does nothing to address that problem.