Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

-----to discuss a number of queries. There is also a dedicated Oireachtas e-mail address where Members can have these queries answered.

That is more than sufficient, and the queries of Senator Healy Eames in that regard can be answered in that forum. In that context, Members can gain a great deal from Adjournment motions, as Senator Byrne mentioned, but there have been cases where Members have not turned up for Adjournment motions even though the Ministers have arrived. I am not alluding to Senator Byrne. Only last week, a Minister was waiting in the Chamber but the Member did not turn up. I remind Members that if they have tabled an Adjournment motion, the least they can do is be present when the motion is to be discussed.

Senator Higgins raised competition in the marketplace, particularly in the beef industry. The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine was in the House a few weeks ago and he addressed that matter. Indeed, he addressed similar matters in the other House when replying to parliamentary questions today. However, I will certainly bring it to the attention of the Minister, Deputy Coveney.

Senator Crown spoke about the ban on smoking in cars where children are present. I agree with him that we are very slow in getting the wheels moving where legislation is concerned. I ask him to withdraw his proposal today. I assure him that I will allocate Government time for Report Stage of that Bill next week.

Senator Moran reminded Members that tomorrow is the final day for submissions on symphysiotomy. She also mentioned that today is Safer Internet Day. In light of the figures she highlighted we will have a further debate on that matter in the near future.

Senator Mullins spoke about the poor conditions in Bangladesh and Cambodia, especially in the garment industry, and about supporting the workers. We would all support his sentiments in that regard.