Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am sure we will have another debate on the issue when the full details are announced.

Senator Ivana Bacik reminded us that this is National Bike Week and urged us all to get on our bicycles. I compliment local authorities throughout the country on the various initiatives they have taken in this regard.

The issue of forced marriages, which is the subject of a case that was before the courts yesterday, was referred to by several Members. I will raise the issue with the Minister for Justice and Equality. If it is found, in the aftermath of this court case, that there is a requirement for legislation, I am sure the Minister will expedite the introduction of same.

Senators Rónán Mullen, Brian Ó Domhnaill, Michael Mullins and others referred to certain practices by crisis pregnancy agencies including the Irish Family Planning Association. I was not aware of the Minister's reply to Deputy Terence Flanagan, but I agree the report which was referred to should be published. However, I do not propose to amend the Order of Business to address that matter this morning. Members might wish to submit it for discussion on the Adjournment tomorrow to obtain the information they have sought.

Senator Colm Burke complimented all involved in the organisation of the G8 summit and the visit of Ms Michelle Obama and her daughters to this State, with particular reference to the excellent work done by the Garda Síochána. Everybody would endorse that sentiment.

Senator Denis O'Donovan referred to the dangers faced by fishermen in the course of their work and asked about the use of personal locator beacons. In the aftermath of the dreadful fishing accident off Tramore last week which claimed the lives of three fishermen from Passage East in my own county, I contacted the Department for Transport, Tourism and Sport to ascertain what action is proposed to be taken. I am told the Department is working with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and Bord Iascaigh Mhara on the legislative and financial supports for a series of maritime safety measures - focusing on the fishing sector - including the promotion of personal locator beacons.

Sheahan, Tom.

This involves complex work which is now nearing completion. I understand a suite of measures to support fishing vessel safety will be announced by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Varadkar, and the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Deputy Coveney, in the coming weeks. I thank Senator O'Donovan for raising this important matter for the benefit of all involved in the marine sector, fishermen in particular.

Senator Higgins called for a debate on sentencing, particularly minimum sentencing. We will ask the Minister to come to the House for a debate on that issue. I asked previously for this and perhaps the Minister will come to the House soon. I agree totally with Senator Higgins that the punishment must fit the crime in all the cases referred to. The Australian case was mentioned specifically.

Senator Mary Ann O'Brien raised the issue of competitiveness and the proposals of the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Burton, in regard to the minimum wage. I have read accounts of the proposal and believe the Minister will clarify the situation. I agree with the Senator that competitiveness is key to creating jobs. With regard to the issue of rates which both she and Senator Landy raised, I agree commercial rates and increases in those rates are a major issue for small retailers. Yesterday, on the Order of Business, I addressed the question of the valuation placed on many properties and businesses, in Waterford in particular. These properties have been revalued for rates purposes in the past number of weeks. This issue is a cause of great concern for many small retailers and will put them to the pin of their collar to survive. I understand a meeting was held in Waterford yesterday, attended by staff from the valuation office, but I am not aware yet of what transpired at that meeting. However, I agree rates are a major problem, particularly for small retailers, in these difficult times.

Senator Comiskey outlined the situation regarding the farming community, fodder and the need to ensure we will not have the problems we had this year in the future. I agree with him. We will try to get the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to come to the House to outline his plans for the future in that regard.

Senator Crown raised the issue of the availability of licensed cancer drugs and the possible operation of cartels. This is a serious problem being brought to our attention by the Senator. If such cartels are operating, immediate action should be taken by the appropriate Minister, whether the Minister for Health, Deputy Reilly, or the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Bruton. I hope that during the debate on the Health (Amendment) Bill this afternoon, the Senator will get the opportunity to raise that particular issue with the Minister for Health. It is an issue that is relevant for our whole population. When people are ill, especially with life-threatening diseases, the necessary medication must be provided. A situation like that outlined by Senator Crown today is totally unacceptable in our health system and must be addressed.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh raised the issue of the Good Friday Agreement. Even after all these years, this remains a work in progress and there are still issues to be addressed. With regard to a debate on budgetary matters, the timescale is very tight this year. We had comprehensive debates last year, but as Senators are aware, the budget will be on 15 October this year. I will see what I can do for September or even before the recess to arrange for some debates on the budgetary process. Senator White also raised the issue of the budget.