I have received notice from Senator Máire Devine that, on the motion for the Commencement of the House today, she intends to raise the following matter:
The need for the Minister for Health to make a statement on the policy whereby patients in receipt of medical care, while in the process of applying for a medical card, are responsible for fees incurred.
I have also received notice from Senator Frank Feighan of the following matter:
The need for the Minister of State with responsibility for mental health services and older people to provide an update on progress in providing the new 90-bed unit planned for St. Patrick's Hospital in Carrick-on-Shannon and the new 50-bed unit at Sacred Heart Hospital in Roscommon town.
I have also received notice from Senator Tim Lombard of the following matter:
The need for the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to outline the national strategy for promoting viable trade routes between southern Ireland and the Continent in the light of the plans by Irish Ferries to reduce its port services from Rosslare.
I have also received notice from Senator Jennifer Murnane O'Connor of the following matter:
The need for the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection to make a statement on the future of the community employment social inclusion scheme.
I have also received notice from Senator Brian Ó Domhnaill of the following matter:
The need for the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment to provide an overview of current Government policy on the post office network.
The matters raised by the Senators are suitable for discussion. I have selected the matters raised by Senators Máire Devine, Frank Feighan, Tim Lombard and Jennifer Murnane O'Connor and they will be taken now. Senator Brian Ó Domhnaill may give notice on another day of the matter he wishes to raise.