Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Whelan spoke about the cost of drugs. He also supported the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources regarding the need to ensure that large sporting events remain free to air, and he called for a debate on energy policy. We had a debate on energy policy with the Minister at the beginning of the term. There have been changes in the meantime in relation to EirGrid, so perhaps we can try to get the Minister in again next term to discuss the whole area of energy policy and the matter the Senator raised regarding EirGrid.

Senators Brennan and Mullins discussed Tidy Towns. Senator Brennan spoke of the need to ensure we have more judges to combat the problem of early judging, where it is felt that some towns may be favoured over others. Senator Mullins raised the question of litter. It is disgraceful to see the amount of litter that is dumped from people's cars. People go about their business and throw whatever they have out of their cars. It is certainly contributing to the state of our country. Some of our roads are badly littered. I do not know what we can do about it. Education and penalties, a carrot and stick approach, are certainly necessary. I will try to arrange a debate with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport on that matter.

Senator Hayden spoke about the decision of the Tánaiste's Department not to increase rent supplement. She called for a debate on the future of the rent supplement scheme. We had a debate on the private rental sector with the Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Coffey, on 11 February, but we will try to have the Tánaiste in to discuss the report on this matter prepared by her Department.

Senator Hayden also, along with Senator Bradford, discussed the wind-down of NAMA. Selling off large blocks where individuals have no chance of securing homes is a wrong policy. We will try to have the Minister for Finance come to the House to discuss that matter with us.

Senator Moran lauded the achievements of educational facilities and pupils in Dundalk.

Senator Bradford spoke about economic and political certainty. I thought we had that here. The Government has made a commitment to serve its full term to advance the policies that are securing our economic future and recovery. I assure the Senator that this Government will serve its full term.