Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Boyhan is considering his position, exactly.

Senator Byrne made reference to the issue of housing and the need for us, as a country, to have a debate and a discussion around what Senator Marie-Louise O'Donnell calls rightsizing and what Senator Byrne called downsizing this morning. The points Senator Byrne made are becoming the norm in our offices. As we knock on doors, we find that single or widowed persons are living on their own in three or four-bedroom houses. We need to have the conversation and I am happy to arrange for the Minister to come to the House.

Senator Mac Lochlainn raised the important issue of mica in Donegal. Vested interests and stakeholders have held a series of meetings in Donegal. I am happy to bring his points to the Minister. Perhaps a Commencement matter on the topic might be more expeditious in getting a reply. The incidence of mica is a very important matter that needs to be resolved for the people of Donegal.

Finally, Senator Feighan made reference to the welfare of greyhounds in light of the "Prime Time Investigates" television programme. The Irish Greyhound Board has put €350,000 into a fund for a traceability database, which is welcome. We welcome any improvement to be taken in terms of animal welfare. Many people in the greyhound industry were appalled at the content of the programme and are working hard to redress the matter.

I will not divide the House in terms of the amendment proposed by Senator Conway-Walsh.