Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am only partly suffering from insomnia. I do not listen to the programme or watch it every night. I will get somebody to watch the programme. It is important. The point the Senator made is relevant. We are the Upper House and the second Chamber of the Oireachtas. If the programme covers committees and the Dáil, it should also cover proceedings here. I have said before that we need to give programmes a reason to cover us. The problem is that the programme is broadcast late at night but the recording is done early in the day. Perhaps RTE could examine how it covers the Oireachtas and we will take the matter up with it.

Senator Butler raised the issue of small and medium enterprises, connectivity and broadband. He is correct. It is equally important that mobile phone providers are taken to task because phone coverage is appalling. At a time when we have invested significant amounts of money in connectivity and broadband, I am baffled as to how there has been a deterioration in mobile phone coverage in the past number of years. Mobile phone providers have an obligation to explain the situation.

Senator Devine referenced the mental health issue, which was debated in the Dáil. She made a good comment. She is correct. It is an important issue and mental health is a priority for the Government. Weekend cover is something that needs to be examined and discussed. The vote in the other House is beyond our gift and remit.

If it is the case that Sinn Féin is not supporting the appointment of Senators to the all-party committee, I hope Senators will ask their party colleagues for us to be included. Many Senators have expertise in health and should be part of the strategy. They bring a body of experience and work to this issue. I am not sure of the Sinn Féin position.