Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Senator's point is worth pursuing and I accept that. It is beyond my jurisdiction but I would be happy to support him in that.

Senator Ardagh's point is sincere and important. To put it in context for Members of the House and those watching, the Irish Blood Transfusion Service is aiming to collect 7,000 donations between now and St. Patrick's weekend. We should all support that call. I appeal to Members here to support that too.

Senator Boyhan raised the issue of Dún Laoghaire Harbour. I know a meeting was scheduled for yesterday in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown. It is an amenity and an asset of huge importance to the State. The issue that the Senator raised is particularly pertinent with regard to the council having to incur the cost. I would be happy to have that debate. As a matter of urgency, the Senator might find it better to raise it as a Commencement matter. It should not be underestimated.

The Minister has not confided in me about the date for the Seanad by-election but I am sure he will inform us all in due course about moving the writ.

I express the view to Senator Conway-Walsh that we were very fortunate that the farming community came to the rescue of so many people during the course of the storm. I apologise if I misinterpreted the Senator's remarks but I hope she was not saying that Europe is bad for Irish farming, because Europe has been very good.