Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There will be news in March. Senator Hayden raised procurement policy and welcomed the progress in the Greek situation, which we all welcome. She referred to the Supreme Court's decision to reject an appeal in the education arena and called for a debate on the lack of inclusiveness in education. We can pursue it with the Leader on his return.

Senator Barrett, as ever, argued cogently against the sale of the Government's Aer Lingus shares to IAG and welcomed the Minister's statement. This is to be welcomed. It is an ongoing situation and we will hear more about it in early course from the Minister and the Government.

Senator Mullins referred to Apple's huge investment in Athenry and greatly welcomed it.He said it was a major investment and a vote of confidence in the country and he hopes there will be a follow on in favour of Ballinasloe. That would be welcomed by many people in County Galway. Senator Leyden was also strongly supportive of what is proposed in Athenry but he noted that it is merely speculation at this stage. We will await clarification from the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation on the matter.

Senator Noone referred to a law and order issue whereby older people in certain areas on the fringe of Dublin are being targeted by criminals. She welcomed the new recruits and vehicles for the Garda but indicated that further measures would be welcome and called for a debate on the matter. Last week the Leader announced that the Minister for Justice and Equality has agreed to a wide ranging debate on law and order as soon as her diary permits.

Senator Power raised the issue of children being given best advantage and referred to DEIS schools. She also spoke about the serious damage caused by cigarettes, including e-cigarettes, and indicated that she plans to introduce a Bill to deal with this issue. I am sure the House has no objection to that. Senator Comiskey raised the issue of pubs and variations in rates and pointed out that rural Ireland is suffering as a result of the issue.

Senator Craughwell welcomed Apple's proposed investment in Athenry and spoke about the education sector. He knows much more about that subject than I do given his experience. He referred to the problems and difficulties with regard to cloud industries. I am sure we can get further information on that issue. Senator Colm Burke also welcomed the proposed investment in Athenry. He also pleaded for nurses to be allowed to return to Ireland. There are huge delays in that regard. I will bring the issue to the attention of the Minister for Health.

Senator Mooney also welcomed the proposed investment in Athenry and bemoaned the lack of investment in lovely Leitrim. He also referred to the national bus company and the absence of information on which services are to be withdrawn from rural areas. He asked about the Government's commitment in this regard. Perhaps this is a matter on which we can have a debate. It might be suitable for a commencement debate.