Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Reilly referred to the youth guarantee and suggested that we invite the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Burton, to come before the House to discuss it. I have invited the Minister to return to the Seanad to deal with a number of issues. I am informed that 28 May is the next occasion on which she will be available. On that date she will be before us to discuss the position regarding the rent supplement. I will try to encourage her to engage with us in a debate on the youth guarantee and she did previously indicate that she would be prepared to come before the House to discuss the matter.

Senator Noone referred to the importance for Ireland of the UK remaining in the EU. Senator Zappone referred to the Seanad Public Consultation Committee. The latter will be engaging in a comprehensive debate on human rights in this Chamber on 6 May next. I encourage as many Members as possible to attend that meeting. It is important that even those Senators who are not members of the committee should attend.

Senator Wilson referred to the fact that mobile telephone coverage has disimproved significantly in recent months. I will raise that matter with the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Rabbitte. It might be a good idea for the Senator to seek to raise it on the Adjournment in order that he might obtain an immediate reply. Senator Wilson also outlined his concerns with regard to changes to the junior certificate and the need for the Minister for Education and Skills to intervene in respect of the dispute which has arisen.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh referred to the Roma community. I was invited by Pavee Point to attend a conference on that matter which is being held today. Unfortunately, I am not in a position to attend. I agree with the Senator that there is a need for a debate on the matter. One of the committees of the British-Irish Parliamentary Association has been tasked with dealing with compiling a report on the Traveller and Roma communities. Perhaps the House might debate that report when it is published.

I appreciate the fact that Senator Mullen is trying to recruit canvassers.