Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am glad Sinn Féin has reviewed its position in Northern Ireland in that regard.

Senators Paul Coghlan, Conway and others spoke about the future of historic houses. It is of paramount importance for tourism and also for our built heritage. It is important that proper boards are put in place. However, money is also required to afford the upkeep of these houses.

Senator Conway spoke about municipal districts. I am sure they will be examined in the context of the review of local government. He is right in saying that many of the districts are too large and unwieldy. It is most unfair to councillors and the people they represent. I am sure that will be examined and, I hope, addressed in the review of local government.

Senator Craughwell spoke about the Beit collection. I do not think the Minister misled the House in any way. She said she was informed by the board that to stop the sale would require €1.4 million, the fees due to Christie's. Obviously the chairperson and the board have a different viewpoint as a result of overtures made to the board. It is to be hoped as a result that those paintings will be retained in the country. I am not sure who will own them at that point. However, the idea is that the paintings will be kept in Ireland. As was emphasised last week, these paintings were not donated to the State. These paintings are part of the Beit collection and are not part of the paintings that were given to the State, which are on display in the National Gallery. These are held under trust by this board.

Senator O'Donovan spoke about votes for the diaspora. He made very valid comments in asking where we draw the line. On that point, we are due another debate on Seanad reform. I gave an indication that we would have a further debate on the matter with the chairman of the group that produced that report, Dr. Maurice Manning. We should have that debate before we discuss the Bill. I indicated that we would give people considerably more time than we gave on the previous occasion. It was a preliminary discussion that we had. We may give people eight to ten minutes to discuss that Seanad reform report before we proceed to the Second Stage of the Bill. I hope we will have that before the summer recess.

Senator Mullen spoke about HSE policy in Galway. I said he could mention it on a Commencement debate, but unfortunately he is not here for me to reply. As with all other areas of the country, politicians should have debates on policy with the HSE through the regional forum. I think the matter should be taken up at that forum.

Senator Daly welcomed that the Taoiseach indicated that the files for the Kingsmill massacre would be released. That is a commitment the Taoiseach has given. The murder of Mr. Pat Finucane, and the Dublin and Monaghan bombings were raised by many Members last week. Everyone in the House supports the need for the British to release these documents.