Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am sure the Minister will provide funding additional to the €30,000 that has already been granted.

Senator Higgins referred to the planning process and highlighted the fact that companies are objecting and trying stifle opposition in the marketplace. Again, the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government will be coming before the House to take a number of Bills in the next week or so and I am sure the Senator will have the opportunity to raise those issues with him at some point.

Senator Bradford referred to the sale of the northern loan book by NAMA. I am sure that matter will be addressed by the Joint Committee on Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform and the Committee of Public Accounts. The Senator is correct, there is a need for absolute transparency and probity. These are essential in these matters.

Senator Keane referred to the University of Cambridge study on alcohol consumption during pregnancy. The results of that study are a matter of some concern. I will not comment about Coppers. I assure the Senator that it is a long time since I have been there.