Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with Senator Norris. If I was doing a crossword and had to come up with a five letter word for performance-related payments it would be "bonus". I am agreeable to the Senator's amendment to the Order of Business, that No. 12 be taken before No. 1.

Senator Power raised the plight of the Palestinian people. As I said yesterday, the Government pledged an additional €2.5 million recently for the rebuilding of Palestine. It has been the policy of successive Governments that there should be a two-state solution in the Middle East where Palestine and Israel is concerned.

I will find out for Senator Gilroy the status of the national monuments Bill and revert to him on that. Senator Ó Murchú spoke about tourism matters, especially the plight of the bed and breakfast sector and the need to reinvigorate that sector. The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Donohoe, will be in the House on 26 November for a debate on tourism when the Senator will have an opportunity to raise those relevant points.

Senator Bradford raised the Ombudsman's lost at sea report. I agree totally with the sentiments expressed by Senator Bradford on that issue. We will have a debate on fisheries on 12 November with the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Deputy Coveney, in the House and that will be an opportune time to raise that matter with the Minister.