Yesterday I advised that I might discuss issues relating to the Defence Forces here. Thanks to the kindness of the Leader in offering a debate with the Minister of State responsible, I shall defer my comments until the Minister of State is here.

Later on today we will discuss the insurance industry. An issue that is of particular interest to anybody sitting in this House is the impact an accident may have on a county councillor who performs his or her duties.

Members will recall that some time ago in County Donegal first responders had their insurance cover loaded with additional costs. We all know county councillors who drive hundreds of miles across their constituencies. If they were to be involved in an accident while on council business, would they be covered? I have not been able to get a definitive answer to this question. Furthermore, if they were to be involved in an accident and injured in some way-----

I remind the Senator that there will be a debate on the subject of motor insurance later.

I understand that, but we will not be discussing this specific issue.

I am saying it in the interests of avoiding repetition.

The other question is that if they were to suffer a personal injury, would they be covered? This is something that is particularly-----

The Senator would be quite entitled to raise that issue during the debate on motor insurance.

The debate will be more general, but-----

No, I can assure the Senator that the Chair will allow him to raise the matter.

Thank you.

I wish to make one final point on the issue of free legal aid. I received a telephone call this morning to advise me that a person had been buried in a gold-plated coffin with a Rolex watch. His partner is now looking for free legal aid, having been caught engaging in criminal activity. Where are we going? I fully appreciate the necessity to provide free legal aid for those who need it, but I would welcome a debate on the issue and whether the scheme is being abused.