Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I accept it is the case. No region should be without 24-7 cardiology services.

Senator Colm Burke noted the importance of the Bill on missing persons in the context of the loss of lives in the Malaysian Airlines disaster. I note the points made by the Senator and will ascertain what progress is being made with the Bill.

I note the point raised by Senator White in respect of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 and the matters she raised regarding a policing board when the legislation was being debated in the House. I was the Opposition spokesperson on justice in 2005.

Senator Keane asked about the Protected Disclosures Bill. I will find out what is the current position and revert to the Senator.

I note the points raised by Senator Leyden concerning the former Garda Commissioner, Mr. Callinan. There is no doubt the former Commissioner was an excellent policeman who gave 41 years of distinguished service to the State.

Senator Wilson paid a moving tribute to former Senator Nicky McFadden. Senator Wilson and the late former Senator McFadden frequently raised the issue of head shops in the House, which resulted in the closure of such shops.

Senator Crown raised the issue of providing medical cards for people with motor neurone disease. I concur with the Senator's view on the matter, which I will bring to the attention of the Minister. I gave an undertaking to have his Bill proposing a ban on smoking in cars when children are present taken on 2 April. I assure him that undertaking will be honoured. I am very concerned by his remarks about Waterford Regional Hospital. This is the first I have heard of the issue.

I will not accept the two amendments proposed to the Order of Business.