It was very regrettable that there would not be live television coverage of the forthcoming Ireland-England rugby international, the House leader, Mr Donie Cassidy, said. European governments should act so that people could still watch live coverage of their national teams.
Mr John Dardis (PD) said it was the first time in over 30 years an Ireland-England rugby international would not be broadcast live on RTE as the rights had been sold to Sky Television. It was part of the erosion of the international broadcasting service by satellite television.
The Minister of State for Health and Children, Mr Frank Fahey, said he was concerned about reports of organisations and individuals who were charging much higher fees than he would consider necessary for advising and assisting couples wanting to adopt foreign children. He stressed the importance of those who wished to adopt to consult the Adoption Board and the relevant voluntary organisations.
The Fine Gael leader in the House, Mr Maurice Manning, said what the Minister had said about exploitation and profiteering was of concern to everyone.
Dr Dermot Fitzpatrick (FF) said he was shocked to hear how many vulnerable people were being ripped off. They were prey to sharks.
The Bill to provide legal recognition for foreign adoptions passed its final stages.