As this is the last day before the summer recess, I thank the leaders and Whips of the various groups and Members on all sides of the House for their co-operation and assistance during my first year as Cathaoirleach. We have had a very busy year with a record number of sitting days. We did a great deal of work and processed much important legislation. I thank the Clerk, Clerk Assistant and the staff in the Seanad Office for their help and guidance during the year. I also thank the other people and staff members who helped to ensure the smooth running of the House. We are very grateful to the representatives of the media who cover Seanad proceedings. I express my gratitude to the Leas-Chathaoirleach and to all Senators who acted as temporary chairpersons during the year. I wish you all a pleasant and relaxed break and hope you return refreshed for what looks like being a busy autumn session.
I have notice from Senator Avril Doyle that, on the motion for the Adjournment of the House today, she proposes to raise the following matter:
The need for the Minister for Agriculture and Food to address the prohibition of equine medicines by the EU.
I have also received notice from Senator Bonner of the following matter:
To ask the Minister for Public Enterprise how many and which MMDS licences a company (details supplied) applied for before the closing date for applications on 31 August 1989, the licences granted on foot of these applications and, as there were no applications for licences in the County Donegal area at the closing date for applications, the circumstances in which a company (details supplied) was granted three MMDS licences for that area in 1990.
I regard the matters raised by the Senators as suitable for discussion on the Adjournment and they will be taken at the conclusion of business.