Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am sure the matter will be raised when the Minister returns to the House.

Senator Keane raised the issue of the role of committee members. I note her comments on the Valuation Bill and the rates applied to Croke Park and other sporting stadiums. I will find out when the Bill is due before the House but the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform indicated it would be introduced in the first quarter of this year.

Senator Coghlan said the increase in retail sales indicated a recovery in this sector and the economy.

That is to be welcomed also. I have addressed Senator MacSharry's comment, and there is no question of the Minister for Education and Skills dictating about time for religion. With regard to the new satellite centres for the children's hospital, the relevant Minister will be in the House tomorrow. The development of satellite centres for the children's hospital should be welcomed. The need for services on the north and south sides of the city have been pointed out by Members, and they would compliment the national children's hospital. That should be welcomed by all in the House.

Senator Noone mentioned the comments of an eminent actor on funding for the arts. She pointed out the Government's commitment to the arts. The gentleman in question got it wrong about The Gathering and he may have got it wrong on this matter as well.