Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Mullins referred to the VAT reduction for the hospitality sector and how effective the measures were. It would be a laudable thing to have a debate on the issue. Senator Terry Leyden referred to the conflict in Syria and the dangers of Islamic State. He called for a debate with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, who has indicated that he will be coming to the House in the next couple of weeks.

Senator Naughton referred to the 10% reduction in unemployment in Galway city and county. She stated that job creation and sustaining jobs was the number one priority of the Government. Senator Healy Eames called for a debate on third level education. We have asked the Minister for Education and Skills to come to the Chamber but I have not yet received a date for the debate. Senator Denis O'Donovan called for a debate on the banks. The Central Bank report included a consultation process on its proposals. We will try to have the Minister before the House in the coming months.

Senator Tom Sheahan referred to bringing back Irish people and the possibility of people from other European countries coming to the country. Freedom of movement is a major plank of the European treaties. There is not much that can be done in that regard, but it is worthy of a debate. Senator Mary White referred to the extension of the BreastCheck programme to women over 64 years of age. I am sure the Minister will do everything possible to extend the programme.

Senator Michael D'Arcy referred to the taxation of cars and mentioned an anomaly in the system. I will bring the matter to the attention of the relevant Minister, probably the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government. Senator Ó Clochartaigh referred to local development issues. The Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Kelly, will appear in the Chamber at the end of the month or in early November to deal with housing and homelessness. A debate on that matter has been requested for some time. It is another day's work to get him to appear for debates on the issues mentioned this morning.

Senator Catherine Noone referred to the latest commentary from the ESRI and the positive news contained therein. Senator Paschal Mooney updated us on the long-wave radio transmission by RTE. It is good that RTE is appearing before the Oireachtas joint committee, which is the proper place to raise the issue. Senator Jim Walsh referred to the bonus culture in Bord Gáis and Uisce Éireann. I am sure we will have a debate with the Minister on that. I agree with the point raised by Senator John Crown.