Maternity services and marathon coverage
The Leader accepted Colm Burke’s amendment and said he would raise maternity services with the Minister, then agreed with O'Sullivan that the Dublin marathon deserved live national coverage. The Cathaoirleach confirmed both amendments to the Order of Business were agreed.
I would be happy to accept Senator Colm Burke's amendment to the Order of Business. The Senator raised the issue of maternity services. We had that discussion yesterday and I would be happy to have the Minister come to the House on that matter.
Senator Ned O'Sullivan raised the issue of the coverage of Dublin city marathon. I completely agree that it is disappointing that there is no live coverage of the biggest marathon in the country. The marathon is changed to Sunday this year but I would hope that the national broadcaster would reciprocate by showing coverage of the event. If I may at this juncture, I wish our colleague, Senator Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, who is running the marathon, every success and wish him well. The Minister of State, Deputy Damien English, is also running the marathon and I wish him well. I wish every success to all those travelling to Dublin to run or walk in the marathon, and those who are in wheelchairs, and are raising money for charity in a competitive way. I hope they have a safe journey to Dublin and a safe route around the course.
Senator Ned O'Sullivan raised the matter of bequeaths and the tax incentives for such purposes. I would be happy to have the Minister come to the House regarding that.
Finally, Senator Paddy Burke raised the issue about the Minister, Deputy Ross, which I referred to. The Senator also made reference to the matter raised by Senator Colm Burke.
I would be happy to accept the amendments to the Order of Business.
Comment on this
Senator Grace O'Sullivan has proposed an amendment to the Order of Business: "That No. 8 be taken before No. 1." The Leader has indicated he is prepared to accept this amendment. Is the amendment agreed? Agreed.
Senator Colm Burke has proposed an amendment to the Order of Business: "That No. 9 be taken before No. 1." The Leader has indicated he is prepared to accept this amendment. Is the amendment agreed? Agreed.