Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In regard to the Order of Business, work will continue as usual. We will have an Order of Business tomorrow. It will be no different from any other day. We will have normal business. We are not in an emergency situation or anything like that. It is time for cool heads.

Senator Leyden welcomed the decision of President Obama on normalising relations with Cuba, as has everyone, but as the Senator pointed out, there are a lot of steps to be taken in the meantime. Senators White, Mullins and Norris praised the role played, and the leadership shown, by Pope Francis in brokering a deal between both countries. It is welcome that such negotiations are going on. I am sure there is still a long road to travel but we wish them well in their negotiations. I note the point Senator Norris made in regard to the freezing of the bank account, which he raised some months ago. I hope that will be rectified as a matter of urgency.

Senator Hayden referred to the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre and the possibility of it losing its headquarters. It would be very regrettable if that were to happen.

There is no doubt about it. I will certainly make representations to the Minister. I do not know whether the Minister can interfere with NAMA on it. I hope some resolution can be found in that regard.

Senator Hayden also called for a debate on the need to review the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act 2013. We will certainly give consideration to that in the new year.

Senators Hayden and Quinn spoke about Dún Laoghaire Harbour and Dublin Port. They mentioned the possibility that Stena Line will leave Dún Laoghaire. There is no doubt that such a move would be a massive blow to Dún Laoghaire. I remember the damage that was done to my own city of Waterford when a major carrier left the local port. Indeed, that decision is continuing to damage the Port of Waterford. I note the points that were made about the competition between Dún Laoghaire Harbour and Dublin Port. I will certainly bring the matter to the attention of the Minister. Competition between ports is of paramount importance. Senator Quinn referred to the competitiveness of Shannon Airport and the benefits that have accrued to the area and the tourism sector as a result. It is certainly worth considering.

Senator Quinn referred to the need to be very vigilant about monitoring energy costs in the interests of competitiveness.

Senator Naughton welcomed the agreement on the criteria for the designation of the European capital of culture. I am sure this will be welcomed by people in all cities, including Galway and Waterford, and by all Senators who have an interest in the tender competition for that prestigious designation.

Senator Naughton praised the work of the Samaritans and highlighted the availability of the organisation's helpline. We all agree that the Samaritans have done excellent voluntary work throughout the length and breadth of the country over the years.

Senator Conway praised the work of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. He mentioned that an hotel in County Clare has kindly offered to give generously of its time and money in order to help people who are less well off than others over the Christmas period.

I do not see that there is a need for the amendment to the Order of Business proposed by Senator Craughwell. As I said earlier, we will have plenty of time to debate the Water Services Bill 2014.

Senator Mullins welcomed the excellent tourism figures. He said that the 8% increase in tourist numbers this year has generated great benefits for the economy. I suggest this has resulted from various measures taken by the Government, including the VAT reduction and the removal of the travel tax. Senator Mullins also welcomed the new flights and routes that are planned for 2015 and 2016, which will lead to further tourism benefits in the years ahead.

Senator Mullins reminded us of the importance of thinking about road safety over the Christmas period.

We thank the Whip of the Fianna Fáil Group, Senator Wilson, for the ongoing provision of a pair for one of our colleagues who is severely incapacitated.