A number of years ago, three fishing vessels perished off the south coast, namely, the Maggie B, the Honey Dew II and the Père Charles. Nine fishermen lost their lives and their bodies were never discovered. I understand that two years ago, partial remains were found at Hook Head and Helvick Head. I also understand the testing available to determine whether those partial remains belonged to any of the aforementioned nine men who were lost at sea has not been carried out. Can the Tánaiste give me a guarantee in this Chamber today that whatever tests are necessary will be carried out?

Deputy-----

One member of the Government already has been contacted about it but did not respond very favourably towards the family member in question.

Deputy, sorry, this is not on the Order of Business.

Can the Tánaiste give me a guarantee today that whatever is necessary to determine whether the skull and femur bones that were found can be traced will be done to alleviate the pain those families are suffering at present?

I suggest the Deputy tables a request for a topical issue.

I have had it down all week as a topical issue but it has been ignored.

I will oblige the Deputy next week, if that is all right. He should table it next week.

Can I get a response from the Tánaiste?

No, while it is a serious matter, I cannot allow it on the Order of Business.

It is a serious matter for the family members.

I understand the sensitivity of the point being made by the Deputy and therefore I will consider the matter next week. Is that all right?

Can the Ceann Comhairle establish how I will get an answer?