Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would be happy to have the Minister come before the House to discuss the issues Senator Davitt raised about newspapers. His colleague, Senator Leyden, last week very eloquently and very colourfully debated the matter of local radio stations.

Senator Coghlan raised the very important issue of our small stations. I almost closed my eyes as Senator Coghlan was speaking about Banteer, Millstreet, Rathmore, Mallow and parts of Kerry. It was like going to the Munster football final long ago, when we were young. Senator Paddy Burke raised the issue as well. I am not sure we will be travelling to Killarney much with the Cork footballers at present, but we live in hope. Senator Coghlan might be best advised to table a Commencement matter on the issue, but in essence I would be happy to have the Minister come to the House to discuss the matter.

Senator Horkan raised the skills shortage in education. We had a debate on education recently but we will have one again soon. I would be happy to discuss that element with the Senator in the House.

Senator Ó Ríordáin respectfully asked that the Minister for Justice and Equality come before the House. We have put the request in. It is important to recognise that the Minister has been in the House dealing with the Judicial Appointments Commission Bill. Contrary to what Senator Craughwell believes, it is very important legislation which is a central part of the programme for Government. It is the obfuscation and filibustering of some of the members of the Senator's group that is causing the Minister to be here inordinately to discuss the Bill rather than having it passed-----