I congratulate Ms Arlene Foster on her election as leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, DUP, and wish her well in that job. Great progress has been made. It is good to see a lady and somebody from west of the River Bann as leader of the DUP which is one of the largest parties in the North.

I support my colleagues, Senators Mary Ann O'Brien and John Whelan, in the comments they made about the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, and its apparently dilatory nature in observing and inspecting the plant in County Laois, which was highlighted in the "Prime Time" programme. Judge Catherine Staines questioned why the EPA had taken the case to the District Court on learning that she did not have the power to suspend the operations of the plant. The EPA must answer questions on wider issues to answer in this regard. There are plants that can operate efficiently, effectively and within the rules. I am not suggesting this is happening, but if certain plants are taking shortcuts, perhaps for economic benefit, and, consequently, are a danger to the environment, not just an apparent danger but having a real and current effect as a result, the EPA must to be held to account and get its act together.