Senator O'Toole called for an urgent debate on the fall in the value of our currency against the dollar. I agree with him in that regard and we will have a debate on it at the earliest possible time – I suggest the first week we return after the elections.
Senators Costello, Mooney and Lanigan outlined the position in regard to the proposed match at the weekend. As Senators know, the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation, Deputy McDaid, is, as we speak, in discussions with UEFA and FIFA about the match. I will pass on the views of Senators. I join with Senator Mooney in congratulating the Taoiseach and the Government on their attempts to sort out this very difficult problem with which they are faced.
Senator Costello asked for another debate on house prices and I can facilitate his request. Senators Mooney, Bonner and Glynn called for a debate on dyslexia, for which I will make time available.
Senator Norris expressed his grave concern about the proposed fire brigade strike. I agree with everything he said. I hope it does not happen and that common sense will prevail. It is a unit of our community which has given outstanding service over the years, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks of the year. The contribution of the fire service is not fully appreciated, recognised or realised. I have been close to this type of work for many years through my family and I appreciate everything Senator Norris said about it today.
Senators Norris, Lanigan, Ryan and Glynn expressed their sympathy on the killing of Private Kedian and the serious injury to Private Rushe. As Leader of the House I express our deepest sympathy to the relatives of Private Kedian who was murdered recently. We recall our worst fears many years ago in the Congo. I will the ask the Minister to pass on to the family, the Army and everyone concerned, our deepest sympathy on the death of Private Kedian. I join with the expressions of support for the Army and what it is trying to achieve in peaceful missions throughout the world.
Senator Lanigan called for a debate on RTE, its sports coverage and its association with sponsorship of tobacco companies. I will have time left aside for this. Senator Brendan Ryan also mentioned RTE. He spoke of the broadcaster who thought there were only 11 players on a Gaelic team last Sunday. I will pass on his comment. I was in Croke Park last Sunday and RTE said there were 25,000 people at the pioneer rally. I believe there were approximately 47,000 there. RTE got all their figures wrong last Sunday.