Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I understand that the bulk of business in the Government Publications Sales Office is done online and that is one of the reasons the office is closing. Senator Darragh O'Brien is very good on publications this morning and the Cathaoirleach has told him that the other publication which indicates he was elected to this Seanad is being published and that he will have it soon.

Senator Norris raised the issue of the membership of the constitutional convention. I note the Senator's reservations in that regard. I understand the constitutional convention will have its first meeting in the first week of December.

Senator Norris and several other Senators raised the question of the ongoing difficulties and the dangerous situation in the Middle East. The Tánaiste has made some clear statements on it but I will endeavour to have a debate on the matter in early course if I can arrange for the Tánaiste to come to the House.

Senator Healy Eames and other Members spoke about the sad and tragic death of a young woman in Galway, on which I commented yesterday. As I informed the House yesterday, two investigations are taking place and we should await their findings without any further comment on the case. I am informed also that the Health Service Executive has confirmed that it is still finalising the terms of reference of the investigations as well as deciding who will carry out the investigations. The HSE has also said that it is in the process of appointing an independent external expert in obstetrics and gynaecology to join the investigation team. That should satisfy the concerns expressed by Members.

Senator Mooney raised the issue of the tax payments for multinationals. We had a debate on the economy this week and a debate on the Fiscal Responsibility Bill and I am sure the Senator made those points during those debates.

I do not know what answer he got at that stage.