Senator Devine has proposed an amendment to the Order of Business: "That a debate with the Minister for Health on the need to appoint a sarcoma consultant specialist at St. Vincent's hospital, Dublin, be taken today." Is the Senator pressing her amendment?

I will not press the amendment, though I am not happy about it. It has been a long time and this in the interest of patients. I feel responsible for the people we have lost from sarcoma, as well as the ones still trying to fight with enormous difficulties and ill health. I do not want to divide the House as I am a reasonable individual. However, I am disappointed with the way this has gone. I am aware that it goes beyond the Minister for Health but he needs to put down the strong hand. I will withdraw the amendment pending the Minister's appearance in the House.

The Leader has made a fair offer and stated that he will endeavour to bring the Minister in next week. If that does not occur and I am in the Chair, I will allow the Senator to raise the matter again. She can push it to a vote at that point if she feels she is not making progress.

I think I will call a strike of the Seanad next week.

The Senator will not get paid if she does so.

As Senator Devine knows, I am very supportive of the matter she has raised. I have met with family members and patient advocates in this area and while the situation is unacceptable, it is a matter for St. Vincent's hospital. However, we will talk about it and endeavour to have the Minister come to the House.

Senator Devine has agreed to withdraw her amendment, under protest.

Under protest.

That has been acknowledged.

She is protesting.