I agree with Senator Manning's request for a time allocation of 15 minutes per speaker. Last week I announced 21 pieces of proposed legislation, although it might have sounded like 90 it took so long to read it aloud. I will come into the House at the earliest opportunity over the next sitting day or two and let the Senator know the business intended for the next four or five weeks.
I totally concur with all those who spoke about the problems experienced by the refugees we saw on television last week. Nobody in their right mind could condone what happened. I will also bear in mind the views of Senator Mooney who is vastly experienced in this regard.
Senator Manning asked that the Minister for Finance come into the House to clarify the Government's long-term proposals on corporation tax and taxation in general. I understand the Minister was in Brussels and I do not know whether he will be back tomorrow, but I will try to have that point clarified. Maybe we can take statements on tax matters or have a debate on it at a future date.
Senators Dardis and McGowan want a debate on Northern Ireland; I do not have any difficulty with that. I will discuss this with the leaders over the next day or two to see if we can facilitate the Members who want to participate.
Senator Quinn wants a debate on education; I have no objection to that either. Tomorrow I will be only too pleased to facilitate the Senator with statements on EMU, one of the most important challenges the country will face over the next number of years.
There was a call for the Minister for Foreign Affairs to clarify various points; this does not pose a difficulty. Senator O'Toole made various points about the Merchant Shipping (Commissioners of Irish Lights) Bill. I know you clarified this, a Chathaoirligh, and that the Senator will concur with the Chair's ruling on this matter, as I do. The Senator always has a great gift for being mischievous toward the Leader on the Order of Business, and I take his comments as such.
Senators Norris and O'Dowd referred to the debate in the Dáil on the Government's attitude to the residents from County Louth who are taking legal action against BNFL. For the information of the new Senators, the previous Seanad took a lead in that regard. We can all be proud of our actions, the way we voted and where our hearts lay in relation to this major problem. The people of the island of Ireland are concerned about this but in particular it seems to have most affected the people from County Louth and those living along the east coast. I fully agree with the sentiments expressed. The debate is continuing in the Dáil tonight when the matter will be clarified further. Politicians in general must take the lead and the Civil Service must recognise and accept that a serious situation exists. We gave the lead when the matter last came before this House.
Senator Henry asked about the employment equality Bill. I hope it will be before the House in the next session.
Senator Connor asked about the wildlife Bill which is at an advanced stage. I will come back to the House next week and let the Senator know exactly when it is proposed to take it.
Senators Ridge and O'Dowd raised various points regarding the disabled. I will facilitate statements on the disabled at the earliest opportunity.
Senator Joe Doyle wanted the support of the House to the proposal, which will be before Dublin Corporation this week, for the refurbishment of O'Connell Street. I concur with the Senator's request and will convey the House's views to the Minister. These improvements to the principal street in Ireland are long overdue and I welcome the corporation's findings yesterday.