Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I noted the Senator's point on Egypt. The Tánaiste should discuss that matter as well as the question of Syria in the House.

Senator Comiskey outlined the significant opportunities for Irish beef with the opening of the eastern markets. Senator O'Donovan also made this point. The latter thanked Ministers concerning the issues of personal locator beacons and people's safety at sea. He outlined that people needed to show caution when in the water, particularly at this time of the year.

I will remind the Ministers in question that all of the relevant Oireachtas Members should be notified when Ministers visit a constituency.

I noted Senator Hayden's point on buy-to-let properties, which she has raised numerous times. She made it forcibly yesterday while addressing the land and conveyancing Bill.

Senator Barrett raised the issue of whistleblower legislation. Such legislation was published last week. I am sure that it will be before the House in the autumn. In that context, we will have ample time to discuss the matters referred to by the Senator.

Senator Paul Coghlan referred to the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill. We will have plenty of time to discuss it.

Senator MacSharry mentioned the code of conduct. I have addressed that point.

Senators Landy and Kelly asked for a debate on the JobsPlus scheme with the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Burton. I have asked her to outline to the House what the scheme entails. She has agreed to attend on the matter next week.

Senator Cullinane raised the issue of the jobs action strategy. I will invite the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Bruton, to debate job creation and the Action Plan for Jobs with Senators. I also noted the Senator's point on differences between the foreign direct investment grant aid awarded to various regions. I have raised the matter with the Minister. I was not too hopeful following that discussion, but I hope that something can be done to redress the situation. Some regions have obviously benefited more than others.

Senator Kelly also raised the question of medical cards and asked for the Minister for Health to attend. As the Minister and all of the Ministers of State for health will attend for at least 24 hours on legislation during the next week or so, I doubt that they will be available to discuss other health matters. I urge the Senator to raise the medical card issue on the Adjournment tomorrow, as he said he would.

Senator Brennan referred to difficulties that have arisen at Narrow Water Bridge. Questions must be answered by any company that gives an estimate when the cost turns out to be double that amount.