Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Fitzgerald Stadium is one of the most scenic and picturesque grounds in the country. I had the pleasure of doing local radio commentary there and was able to look across at beauty's home. Those who are from Cork would prefer to come out of there with happier memories than in the recent past. It is important that those who support the bid for the Rugby World Cup get behind it and that those who are in charge of the bid, including the former Tánaiste, Dick Spring, who is the chairman, consider the example of Thurles and Breffni Park and perhaps include them on the list of stadiums.

Senator Byrne raised the issue of Mary Immaculate College. I would be happy for the Minister to examine the issue.

Senator Richmond referred to ongoing Russian activities in Syria and Ukraine. It is a source of concern and the Senator is right to raise the issue. Equally worrying are the comments from Syria about working with the President-elect of America. It is a significant worry for me. It is important that the Minister, Deputy Naughten, comes to the House to outline the issue regarding the digital hub and to clarify remarks that have been made.

Senators Wilson, Conway-Walsh, Ned O'Sullivan and Coffey referred to railways. The Minister, Deputy Ross, will come before the House today. Public transport is an important issue. We must learn from the past. Irish Rail is not Dublin-centric rail; it is Irish Rail. As Mr. Kenny said today on a number of news channels, it is important to recognise that Irish Rail receives its revenue from ticket sales and a subvention from the Government. In budget 2017, over €50 million was allocated in additional funding, bringing its funding to over €300 million for 2017. It is important that we increase investment in the maintenance and renewal of the network and rolling stock. Senator Conway referred to Ennis and I will return to that point.

It is also important that we consider how we make sure that people use our rail network. I recall the west Cork to Cork city rail line. If it was still in place it would be busy, as are the lines from Cork to Cobh and Midleton. We must not repeat the mistakes of the past. I wish to stress to Members that the purpose of the review that has been published is to open a public discussion about the role of our railways, their funding and provide factual material to inform the discussion. No decision has been made. It is important that the Minister, Deputy Ross, hears what Members have to say today.

Senator Conway-Walsh referred to the west. As far as I know, no decisions have been made to close any railway lines. What has been published is simply a discussion document.

Senator Wilson referred to the Youthreach programme. It is a major advantage to our education system and community services. I commend all those who are involved.

Senator McFadden referred to mental health services for adults and children. I would be happy for the Minister to come to the House.

Senator Boyhan also raised transport issues. It is important that we discuss drug trials in residential institutions and homes. I would be happy to discuss the issue with him and see how we can bring about a unified approach. People's lives were interfered with and they were not given proper information or due respect. They were treated very badly by the State and it is important that we continue to raise the issue.The Senator is right, in that these serious allegations require further investigation.

Senators Gavan and Colm Burke referred to the Lansdowne Road agreement. It is important that we put matters in context and root ourselves in reality. Sometimes, Sinn Féin's economic proposals are voodoo economics.