It is a very serious issue that the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland has found that "The Ray D'Arcy Show" on RTE is biased in favour of abortion. This is a disgrace. RTE is te public broadcaster. We all pay a licence fee. This is not a private broadcaster. What is the sanction against this show?

They have been referred to here in the Seanad by the Senator.

What balance will be brought to bear? I have no time for snide comments from any side of the House that is in favour of taking the life of an unborn child.

Again, can we use appropriate language in the Chamber?

I ask the Senator not to bother standing up because, truly, we are so used to her popping up and down to defend the indefensible, to be in favour of the killing of the unborn child.

Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?

A Chathaoirligh, can we have a respectful debate?

What else is abortion?

Does the Senator have a question for the Leader? Will she, please, resume her seat?

What else is abortion? It is the killing or taking of the life of an unborn child.

Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?

My question is this - I repeat it - what sanction will be put on this show to ensure fairness and balance?

The second point I wish to raise is whether it would be reasonable for the Government to consider when a person passes 85 years of age that he or she would automatically qualify for a medical card without making application. Yesterday I was contacted about a 94 year old lady who has had her medical card taken from her because her income exceeded the limit by €11.70. The issue is about the drugs she needs but more so about the physiotherapy she was able to get and all the ancillary services.

It would be more appropriate to raise that issue as a Commencement matter.

It is a serious issue. It is appalling.

The woman had to go down the stairs on her bottom and crawl up the stairs and the physiotherapist was helping her to keep moving. The pharmacist is appalled that he had to charge her for her drugs. It is not about having a GP card, it is about having a medical card that will give her access to free drugs plus the support of services that will allow her to remain independent. She wants to stay in her own home. I would appreciate an answer to the issue.