Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Keane raised the issue of rates and non-viable businesses. She also referred to the issue of peanut allergies.According to her, if one eats them under the age of five years, one has less chance of becoming allergic, but what do I know of that matter? The Senator wants a debate on it and I am sure that we can arrange one in early course.

Senator O'Sullivan agreed with the Apple proposal regarding Athenry, but pointed out that the IDA had provided no jobs in the south west recently. We are fortunate to have some successful industries there, for example, Kerry Group, Liebherr and others, thanks be to God. The Senator also pleaded for more time to debate the Aer Lingus proposal. I believe we will provide it.

I thank Senator Jim D'Arcy for his kind comments regarding committee A's report on cross-Border police co-operation and illicit trade, which was agreed and adopted by the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, BIPA, in plenary session in this Chamber yesterday. The Senator correctly pointed out that great challenges remained. There are many laundering plants in his country. Recently, I saw 12 of them in the company of other members of that committee. They were across the Border in south Armagh. The Senator also welcomed the Taoiseach's statement to the effect that no effort would be spared in pursuing this matter further. The Senator called for a debate on the issue, which I am sure we can arrange.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh welcomed the Athenry situation, but I am not sure about his point on the cost to the State. It might be more suitable for a Commencement debate. As to the traffic situation in Galway, many of us are aware it is serious. The Senator called for a debate on that matter as well. I am sure one can be arranged.

Senator Moran commended the BIPA on its plenary session. It was the body's 50th meeting and its 25th anniversary. Its members were pleased with the arrangements in this Chamber and were delighted to be in Dublin. The Senator welcomed committee A's report and agreed with one of its principal recommendations, namely, that a task force be established. The recommendation recognises the fact that the police services North and South, while doing an excellent job and enjoying an all-time high level of co-operation, have everything short of hot pursuit, which is not something they want or would be suitable. The task force is intended to comprise the police services, Revenue, customs, the CAB and its equivalent body in the North and the environmental agencies. It would have a dedicated, full-time secretariat because criminals do not relax. They work full-time, so if a task force such as this is not in place the committee believes that they will not be defeated. These criminals have been in business for more than 20 years. They will not be wiped out overnight.

Senator Moran also requested clarification on education for people with special needs. She discussed the delay in the recommendations and a further wait of three years. She asked for the Minister for Education and Skills to attend for a debate. I am advised that the House will have statements on the inclusion support services of the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, with the Minister for Education and Skills, Deputy Jan O'Sullivan, on 31 March.

Senator Quinn asked for a debate on Britain's position regarding the EU Single Market. We all wholeheartedly agree with him. I will ask the Leader about whether time could be made available for such a debate, as it would be useful.

Senator Bradford welcomed Apple's proposal and called for a debate on regional policy. He also called for a debate on Aer Lingus. Thanks to Senator Barrett, the latter is almost a daily matter in the Chamber. I am sure it will not slip off the agenda. Senator Healy Eames also welcomed the proposal by Apple.

I hope I have referred to all of the points raised.