Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We will need to examine that problem also. Senator Barrett spoke about the trade agreement between the EU and Canada and the obvious benefits for Canada. The Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Richard Bruton, is pushing for a larger trade agreement between the EU and the US. I note the Senator's points about the 20th anniversary of the Shankill bombings. We will assist Ambassador Haass and we wish him well in his endeavours in Northern Ireland.

Senator Kelly spoke on infrastructure policy and energy needs. As he stated, the matter was addressed in a motion on the Adjournment.

He is asking for a broader debate on the issue and I will certainly invite the relevant Minister, Deputy Rabbitte, to come to the House for such a debate. His attendance is a matter for the Minister but I will certainly issue the invitation.

Senators White, Harte and Ó Domhnaill spoke about the Dublin to Derry road and the reallocation of funding by the Northern Ireland Executive, which is certainly regrettable. The Government has stated the commitment to the project exists, although the required money does not. I am sure that when the money becomes available in the jurisdiction, the finance will be made available for that much-needed road project. Senator Ó Domhnaill also mentioned that Fianna Fáil had made a commitment of €400 million for that road. The party made many commitments but there was no finance to back them up.