Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Marc MacSharry has outlined how his views on economic matters have changed over the year and called for a debate on hospital groupings. This issue is of interest to people in all areas. We are very hopeful our region will be kept intact and that budgets will be controlled within it. I will try to arrange a debate on the issue.

Senator David Norris has welcomed the fact Anglo Irish Bank is no more. I doubt anybody would disagree with him. Senator John Gilroy made an excellent contribution yesterday evening, as did most others, and called on us to wait for the facts. That would be wise. People should not comment on what is only speculation at this point. With regard to what Senator Jim Walsh had to say, I will not revisit the Bill at this stage. The Minister gave a comprehensive explanation last night and I doubt I could add to it.

Senator Fidelma Healy Eames outlined the difficulties facing families in mortgage arrears. I agree that there is a need for banks to respond better than they are doing. Perhaps we might receive a further update from the relevant Minister or Minister of State in due course.

I assure Senator Colm Burke that I have no intention of having late night sessions like the one we had last night on a regular basis. I note the point he made about junior doctors, an issue he has raised in the House on several occasions. He has also mentioned the need for greater co-operation and co-ordination between all health agencies. There is no question that issue is of paramount importance.

Senator Michael Mullins has said he hopes the fruits of the Minister for Finance's labour will benefit the country. We all agree with him. Senator Paul Coghlan has called for a debate on the deal when it is secured. I will arrange it.

Senator Diarmuid Wilson spoke about the guidelines on cyber bullying and asked about the provision of resources to fund their implementation. I am sure the Minister will be anxious to come to the House to discuss these issues with Members.

Senator Mary Moran mentioned the Career Zoo exhibition, an excellent exhibition which as attended by over 9,000 people last year. I hope there will be a lot more present this year and I am sure the exhibition will be as good as, if not better, than last year.

Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh asked about lá na Gaeilge. In addition to the Minister of State, Deputy Dinny McGinley, perhaps on the day we will also have an issue that can be addressed as Gaeilge by all Members fluent in Irish. The Senator also called for a debate on the community and voluntary sector. I will try to arrange such a debate.