Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

When I am dealing with the Order of Business next week I will put forward the time that will be allocated.

I am sure we will have ample time for Members to vent their feelings next week.

I do not wish to comment on Senator Jimmy Harte's contribution. Obviously, there is a strong difference of opinion between Senators Brian Ó Domhnaill and Jimmy Harte on the closure of schools.

Senator Susan O'Keeffe commented on the Food Provenance Bill and a public consultation report on the lifestyle changes needed to prevent cancer and obesity. The Minister for Health will come before the House in the first week after the summer recess to address the report.

Senator Paschal Mooney spoke about the decline of the bee population in the country and called for a review similar to that which took place in the United Kingdom. I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister of State, Deputy Tom Hayes.

Senators John Whelan, Michael Mullins and Catherine Noone spoke about the revival and regeneration of town centres. I will request the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government to come to the House for a debate on all matters relating to that issue.

Senator Fidelma Healy Eames referred to the comments of the Ombudsman for Children on the rehabilitation of young people in prisons. I am sure that the Minister for Justice and Equality or the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs will be willing to come to the House to address the issue.

Senator Mary M. White referred to the pre-budget submission of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. I am sure we will have many pre-budget submissions from different organisations. I note, in particular, the submission of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul which does tremendous work the length and breadth of the country.

Senator Ned O'Sullivan referred to expenditure on election campaigns and referendums and the need for accountability and transparency. Any right-thinking person would agree with him, but there is a need for all organisations to be transparent and accountable in their expenditure in this regard. I will check the position with the Minister.

Senator Michael Comiskey referred to Australia and suggested it might review its working visa programme. He asked for assurances and a campaign in that regard. I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Senator Brian Ó Domhnaill called for a debate on the regulation of the wind energy sector. I will contact the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Pat Rabbitte, who has discussed the matter in the House and I am sure he will be quite willing to do so again.

Senators John Crown and Mark Daly referred to the significant delay in dealing with the Bill to ban cigarette smoking in cars. I will get an update for Senator John Crown and revert to him on the matter.