On behalf of my aide-de-camp, as he has been so eloquently described, and myself I thank the Cathaoirleach and the Members of the House for their good wishes for a successful and lengthy term of office.
I assure Senators that reform of the Seanad will be my first priority. I should remind the House that reform of the Seanad is not a matter for Government, it is a matter for the House. It is my intention to engage in consultations with all groups in the House to see that the reforms — upon which I suspect there is a wide measure of agreement — can be put through as speedily as possible. We are in a fortunate position, thanks to the absence of stability in certain aspects of the House, which strengthens the hand of those who wish to make Government listen. Having consulted with members of the Government I have found that there is widespread support for us doing our own business and ensuring that this House is not left behind as a result of the recent reforms that have taken place in the other House.
With regard to Northern Ireland, I too am anxious to have a debate on it at the earliest opportunity. Senator Dardis made a point about the timing and to the publication of the framework document. In fairness, this House has always debated Northern Ireland in a particularly sensitive way and has never embarrassed a Government in the middle of negotiations.
Senator Dardis and others raised the Road Traffic Act. I suppose it is a matter of great regret that voices in this House were not listened to when the legislation was going through. I understand that at present the Government is consulting with a wide range of interests. The matter is actively under review and I will report back to the House as soon as I have something more specific to say.
Senator Dardis also raised the question of a debate on education. During the last Government, the ongoing debate on education was especially useful. I would like to reopen the debate, and to have education almost as a permanent part of the Order Paper because there are major changes taking place at all levels. The most recent has been the funding for third level fees. It is something I wish to get on the Order Paper quickly.
Senator Lanigan raised the question of the Price Waterhouse report on the Defence Forces. The new Minister for Defence and the Marine, Deputy Coveney, would like to hear the views of Members on this report. When in Opposition we asked that the report be debated, and our position has not changed. I will, therefore, see if I can address this matter at the earliest possible opportunity. I will also ascertain if copies of the report can be made available to Members.
Senator Lanigan also, in the course of a long and discursive contribution, appeared to advocate that we should discriminate against male Members of the European Parliament. However, the political correctness on this side of the House would not allow us to do that.
Senator McGowan raised the question of the county enterprise partnership boards. If he could draft a motion to incorporate the main points he wishes to make on this issue I will ascertain if time can be made for it.
Senator Henry raised the issue of legislation in respect of prisoners. I can assure her that the transfer of sentenced persons Bill is high up on the Order Paper priority list for the Government and I will ensure that the Senator's concern is brought back to Government and I will attempt to have the Bill introduced in this House if possible.
On the question of flooding, I am sympathetic to Senator Finneran's request. I am not sure if our procedures would allow us to act quickly enough, and a motion on the Adjournment might be a speedier way of getting the Minister to attend. Perhaps I could talk to the Senator later to see if there is some other way we can have a fuller debate on this issue.
With regard to the Bill mentioned by Senator Fitzgerald, it is not on the list I have at present. This is a pity because all of us would like to see Dingle grow and thrive. I will make inquiries——
