I will certainly bring the matter to the attention of the Minister for Finance.

Senator Terry Leyden referred to the Central Bank of Ireland. As he knows, it is independent of the Government. I think Ms Lagarde answered the questions she was asked directly and in a very forthright manner.

Senator Michael Mullins referred to the regional spread of jobs and called for a debate on regional grants. I agree with him in that regard. IDA Ireland is at last and not before time concentrating on the need for a regional balance in the creation of jobs. I am happy that it has reappointed a director for the south east, which post it removed in 1996. We wish the lady concerned very well in her endeavours because the south east has suffered more than most areas during the recession.

Senator Michael Mullins also raised the matter of out-of-pocket expenses for those who serve on juries. It is a very valid point. Perhaps a Commencement debate with the Minister for Justice and Equality might be suggested in that regard. Many people who serve on juries are penalised financially.

Senator Gerard P. Craughwell referred to the commission on Seanad reform and reminded people that there were only a certain number of days left to make submissions. He referred to the membership of boards of management and the restriction of 20 km applied. It is a ludicrous suggestion. A distance of 20 km is far too short and will prevent good people from becoming members of boards of management. I am sure the points the Senator wishes to raise about water meters can be raised during the debate on the Private Members' motion this evening.

I have commented on the issue raised by Senator John Whelan, namely, libraries, a matter also raised by Senators John Kelly, Denis Landy and James Heffernan, among others. I agree with Senator John Whelan and hope to arrange for the Minister to attend the House to discuss the matter.

Senator James Heffernan raised a point that was also raised yesterday on the dumping of toxic sludge and diesel laundering in Border counties which he pinned directly on the Provisional IRA which he suggested still ruled the roost through intimidation. I praise the journalist Mr. Jim Cusack who raised the matter in the Sunday Independent. It must be addressed. I note Senator Diarmuid Wilson's point about how, although the Garda and the Customs service on this side of the Border are active, there is a suggestion their counterparts on the other side are not as active, for whatever reason. I am sure this matter will be addressed in many fora in the coming months, including the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly. I am sure it will also be discussed by the relevant Ministers, as it is not just a serious matter in the counties involved but also for the country and its economy. The amount of money involved is large.

Senator Colm Burke called for a debate on home care and the need for proper structures and training. He has drafted a Bill which I hope will be before the House during this term for a comprehensive debate.

Senators Fidelma Healy Eames and Diarmuid Wilson referred to the reform of the junior certificate programme. Each had a different opinion on how this should be done. It is regrettable that there will be a further strike, as it will pose a major inconvenience for families, pupils and all involved. Further negotiation is necessary and I hope it will be facilitated.

Senator Fidelma Healy Eames also asked for a timetable for the taking of the children and family relationships Bill. We will try to ascertain when the Bill will be brought before the House or whether the debate on it will commence in this Chamber.

Senator Aideen Hayden discussed the matter of mortgage loan caps and the critical issue of access to home ownership which I hope we can have addressed in the coming weeks.

Senator Kathryn Reilly mentioned the referendum to reduce the voting age to 16 years. The Government has decided that it will not be held during its term of office, but I am sure the matter will be discussed and kept on the agenda. There are different points of view on whether 16 year olds should have voting rights, but we will try to facilitate a debate on the matter later in the term.

Senator John Kelly made points about competition in the banking sector, as well as library and fire services.

Senator Martin Conway referred to regional registers of protected structures and called on the Minister of State, Deputy Simon Harris, to attend the House. I suggest this could be a good subject matter for a Commencement debate. Perhaps the Senator might table such a motion.