I am pleased that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy John O'Donoghue, met William Geary yesterday and acknowledged the services that he rendered to the State. I am sure all those who highlighted this case on the Order of Business over many days were also pleased. I welcome this, as I did yesterday evening in another forum.
Senators Manning, O'Toole, Costello and Dardis called for a debate on Northern Ireland. I have spoken privately to leaders of various groups before the start of Seanad meetings on various mornings. I thank them for their understanding and co-operation in relation to the sensitive position in which we find ourselves as legislators regarding debates on the North. I hope when this issue is brought to a successful conclusion we can have the Taoiseach in the House and have an opportunity to express our views on the North in the not too distant future.
Senators Manning, O'Toole, Costello, Dardis and O'Donovan called for a debate on immigration. Time will be allowed over the coming weeks for a debate. Senator O'Toole called for a debate on the Shannon waterways, particularly the North-South waterways, as part of the Good Friday Agreement. This is a good idea. The debate last week was worthwhile as the serious condition of Lough Ree has implications for tourism in the midlands. I will allocate time for the debate suggested by Senator O'Toole, hopefully before the Christmas recess.
Senators Costello, Ryan and Mooney expressed concern that Ireland's soccer match this evening is not being televised. I will act on Senator Mooney's suggestion and telephone the Turkish ambassador as soon as the Order of Business is concluded. The Taoiseach is due to speak at noon to the Turkish Prime Minister and he is flying to Turkey this evening where he will meet the Prime Minister in person. I am reminded of the Bill recently brought before the House by the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands. This controversy proves that the issue must be addressed as a matter of urgency. The quicker the better that legislation is enacted.
Senator Costello wishes No. 19 to be taken before No. 1, to have the Senator's Bill printed. As a gesture of co-operation, I have no difficulty with that. However, I fail to see the logic of it since most of the Bill's provisions are relevant to the Planning and Development Bill currently before the House. I am sure the substance of the Senator's Bill could be put before the Minister in the form of amendments on Committee Stage of the planning Bill today. However, I will agree to Senator Costello's proposal for the Order of Business. This is not to be taken as a precedent but as a co-operative gesture.
Senator Cosgrave drew attention to a report for the victim support charter. I agree with the sentiments he expressed and will allocate time for a debate on it with the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. The family to whom he referred found itself in a dreadful position, one which no family should have to endure. The State should be highly supportive of families who undergo such trauma.
Senator O'Donovan highlighted the need for the Government to take action on drug smuggling on the south-west coast. There was a £15 million drug seizure there this week, which is mind boggling to say the least. I will convey his views to the Minister, particularly with regard to updating the Schull and Bantry Garda stations. This is the least that could be done to assist the security forces in the area, which appears to be a gateway into the country for the drug barons.
Senator Coghlan sought a debate to mark the Year of the Elderly. I agree to that. The achievements which have been made for the elderly can be discussed in that debate and I look forward to the Senator participating when it occurs.