Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator O'Donovan also raised issues relating to Irish Water. We have an Irish Water clinic here each week at which people can discuss individual problems with Irish Water and Members should consider attending that. Senator Healy Eames should consider that in regard to the problem she highlighted. We have a mechanism whereby such issues can be raised by Members on a weekly basis and that forum should be used in that regard.

Senator Hayden raised the ESRI report, which certainly shows a robust recovery in domestic demand and also shows a strong export situation. The Government has been strong on the economy and has tried to ensure we continue the progress made to date. This has been Government policy, particularly of the Ministers for Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputies Noonan and Howlin.

Senators Heffernan, Mullen and Walsh raised to the Amnesty International report in reference to abortion. A number of Members raised this matter on yesterday's Order of Business also and I do not propose to deal with it again today. Senator Leyden raised the question of fluoride in water. The recent report issued suggested there is no evidence that fluoride creates a health hazard. I understand people disagree with that and Senator O'Brien raised the matter on a number of occasions.

Senator O'Donnell asked about the future of the post office network. We all support a strong post office network. However, An Post needs to start moving to generate new business, because that is what is required. People will decide how they want to receive payments.