Mary Ann O'Brien (Independent) | Oireachtas source

As I demonstrated yesterday these so-called special needs people could be the next Thomas Edison, Steven Spielberg or Richard Branson. Let us assist and educate these people. Why should we educate normal children and not special needs children? I call on the Leader to provide time for a debate on this issue, at which time the Minister, Deputy Quinn, will hopefully climb down from the pulpit he has climbed by mistake and reverse these cuts.

The debate on Senator Quinn's Bill last night is a clear demonstration of how the Seanad should work. I am a little disappointed that the Minister for Health, following much deliberation, has decided to conduct a technical survey with the assistance of four HSE personnel who, as stated by Senator Barrett, will cost €75,000 each. Senator Quinn has conducted all of the research. While some amendment of the Bill is required, it is ready to go. What a great idea to have defibrillators available all over Ireland.

I welcome the Government decision on forestry. I would welcome a debate on this matter. I recall during the first meeting of the agriculture committee with Coillte that I was a little concerned about its business practises. When I asked the Coillte representative to outline its gross margins the response was that it does not do margins. I am concerned about Coillte's commercial activities. I welcome the proposed merger. There is a great deal of money to be made for the Government and State. I welcome the superb business-like approach being taken in this regard. We all need to know our margins if we are to move forward and make money.