Senator Doyle and many others raised the question of the Maastricht Summit. In regard to various views expressed over the past number of weeks I found the greatest emphasis placed on three areas of importance to this country. One was the Common Agricultural Policy, the others were Maastricht and the banking system. The Common Agricultural Policy is on the agenda for tomorrow. I had hoped to debate the Maastricht Summit next week and the banking system the following week but I am of the opinion now that will have to be changed. However, I can assure the House that Maastricht will be debated in this House, even if it means coming back for a special sitting, in the next two weeks.
Senator Doyle also raised the question of the European affairs committee and a foreign affairs committee. I made inquiries over the past weeks and I understand they are still onstream, I cannot say exactly when they will be set up but I know the intention is there, to establish the committees. I have asked for representation from the Seanad on them.
Senator O'Toole asked, not for the first time as he said, when legislation will be initiated in this House. I repeat what I said previously; both myself and the Chief Whip will continue to look for legislation to be initiated in this House. As he knows, there has been a change of portfolios. Many Ministers have been changed and that has altered the position somewhat. Nonetheless our efforts will continue in that direction.
Senator Upton referred to Century Radio as did many other Senators. I very much regret the closure of Century and the loss of 50 jobs. I am very sorry for the staff in that station. I will certainly inquire from the Minister, when amending legislation to the Broadcasting Bill will be introduced and if it can be introduced in this House. I will further inquire from him if there is likely to be a — I have heard no mention of it — White Paper on broadcasting.
Senator Naughten referred to Maastricht and the rates support grant as did others, in particular, Senator John Ryan and Senator Hederman. I have spoken to the new Minister for the Environment regarding this matter and he tells me that within the next three or four days councils will be informed of the level of the rates support grant.
Senator Mooney referred to the Broadcasting Bill. I have given my reply in that case and also in reply to Senators Cassidy and Cosgrave. Senator Brendan Ryan asked about the banking system. As I explained, the debate could be next week. I hope both Maastricht and the banking system debates will take place within two weeks in this House.
Senator Cullen spoke about Maastricht and Century Radio. Senator Costello referred to taking all Stages of the Bill we are discussing today. My intention was to go as far as we could to 6 p.m. Obviously if the House agrees we should stop at Committee Stage I would have no objection but the intention would be to go ahead if we can.
Senator Norris asked about a White Paper on broadcasting and he asked when we will resume the debate on reform of the Seanad. I believe I am safe in saying to Senator Norris that resumption of that debate will take place next week. I have no plans for a debate on the Middle East at this time.
Senator Staunton referred in a very detailed way to Dalgan Lyons. There is no better person to do it than a Mayo man like himself. Senator Ó Foighil referred to Maastricht and broadcasting and Senator Ross also asked about broadcasting. I certainly do not intend to comment on Senator Ross's reply to Senator Hederman.