Fine Gael Waterford Deputy, Paudie Coffey, has today (Wednesday) said the decision by the Government to establish an independent expert panel to consider the possibility of putting high power cables underground is positive a move. Deputy Coffey, in his submission to Eirgrid, sought full transparency and clarity around the overhead options versus underground options and this will now be addressed by an independent panel of experts.

Clare Fine Gael Senator, Martin Conway, has today (Wednesday) called on the Minister for Justice and Equality, Alan Shatter TD, and the Garda Commissioner to consider extending the role of the Garda Reserve to include initiatives to reduce crime against the elderly. Senator Conway raised the issue with Minister Shatter during a Seanad adjournment debate this week.

Fine Gael Meath East TD, Regina Doherty, has today (Wednesday) welcomed a commitment from the Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Brian Hayes, that €348,000 is to be reinvested in heritage sites. Minister Hayes made his comments at a meeting of the Select Sub Committee on Public Expenditure and Reform.

Fine Gael TD for Dublin South West and Minister of State at the Department of Finance and the OPW, Brian Hayes, has today (Wednesday) announced that he is putting his name forward as a candidate for nomination to run in the Dublin constituency in the upcoming European Parliament elections.

Fine Gael Dublin Senator, Cáit Keane, has today (Wednesday) called for a re-assessment of the new commercial rates set by Dublin City Council for Croke Park and the Aviva Stadium, after it was announced that rates will more than double on each stadium. Senator Keane added that the Government should re-examine the new Valuation Bill to include a derogation for sporting organisations.

Clare Fine Gael TD, Joe Carey, has suggested old car tyres should be used in port, coastal and river areas, to help prevent flooding and erosion. Deputy Carey added that the move could help to prevent the sort of damage caused by the recent storms in coastal areas around the country.

The AAIU has published its Final Report into the fatal public transport accident that occurred at Cork Airport in February 2011. The AAIU recognises that this is a difficult time for those families who lost loved ones and the surviving passengers who suffered injuries in this tragic accident. Our deepest sympathies to all concerned.

The incident raised public health and safety issues regarding overcrowding outside venues that should be addressed urgently by venue owners in collaboration with the gardai, fire services and local authorities.

Fine Gael Wicklow/East Carlow, Simon Harris, has welcomed the news that the Health Service Executive (HSE) has accepted the recommendations of the Ombudsman, Peter Tyndall, in relation to the inclusion of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the Long Term Illness Scheme.