Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

However, I am unable to accept his proposed amendment. Second Stage of the Bill will be taken today. Committee Stage will not be taken until further consultations have taken place. No meetings with interest groups have yet been scheduled. However, I am advised they will be arranged soon. For this reason, Committee Stage will be delayed. I hope that is helpful to the Senator.

I will refer the question on the pyrite issue to the Leader, who is sympathetic to the Senator's concerns in this regard. I am sure the Leader will deal with the matter on Tuesday and will facilitate the Senator in allowing time for such a debate rather than have Fianna Fáil arrange for such a debate during its Private Members' time.

I agree with Senator Hayden's comments in regard to the job announcements by Paddy Power and the Kerry Group, which are all welcome. I agree also, as I am sure do all Members of the House, that the President is doing us proud in enhancing Ireland's reputation in South America.

Senators Hayden and Leyden called for a debate on taxi regulation. The Minister of State, Deputy Kelly, has given an undertaking that he will come to the Seanad in the near future to discuss this issue. I note Senator Barrett's comment in regard to the Commission. I do not doubt what he had to say. I am sure that will be taken into account. As I explained earlier, Committee Stage of the legislation will be delayed.

Senator O'Neill's comment in regard to peace commissioners was interesting. I am sure this is repeated throughout the country. However, the Senator, as I am sure he is aware, is in a position to make representations. I will pass on the Senator's comments to the Minister.

Senator Walsh spoke about the public service unions, the banking sector, unemployment and so on. I understand the Leader is favourably disposed towards debates on those issues. I will communicate with him in this regard.

Senator Mullins issued a timely reminder in regard to the referendum on children's rights. I take on board his comment that we must defeat any apathy in this regard and that it behoves all of us to do what we can to ensure the referendum is passed. I agree also that Saturday is a good choice of day for the holding of the referendum. I compliment the Minister and Government in this regard.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh spoke about suicide. I was saddened by the case which he outlined. I am sure the person concerned welcomed his assurances. I will pass on the Senator's concerns to the Leader.

Senator Landy also spoke of the job announcements by Paddy Power and the Kerry Group, which as I stated are very welcome. I note his comments about race nights in Dundalk. While I have not been there myself I have heard it is a great track. The industry needs help and we should be encouraging the holding of more race nights there. I will follow up the matter with the Leader.

I have already responded to Senator Leyden's call for a debate on taxi regulation. As I stated, the Minister of State, Deputy Kelly, will come into the House soon to discuss the matter. The Senator is correct that the regulator needs to examine the current situation.

I am delighted Senator Leyden is keeping the drivers happy and that he is sharing their fumes.