Lynn Ruane (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Grand. I might also send on some questions I might not get to ask.

On the method of calculation, what is the rationale for using 60% of the median hourly wage rather than using another model? One such model that comes to mind concerns the minimum essential standard of living, which looks beyond pay and toward items that people need to live a life of decent quality. If we opt for 60% of the median hourly wage, we will miss some of the lowest earners, which ends up with benefits going in the wrong direction.

With regard to pensions, while many colleagues will discuss equality in terms of pay, we know there already exists severe inequality and discrimination regarding women's pension entitlements. The proposal of the Government to require 40 years of contributions to get a full contributory State pension seems regressive and discriminates against those who engage in care work, many of whom are women. The Minister spoke about those who contribute the most, but contributions are made not only through PRSI but also through care. Could the Minister discuss the decision and state whether it was subjected to gender and equality proofing before it was made? How can the Government say it is serious about gender equality when taking a regressive step that would disproportionately affect women by way of the State pension?

Although the Minister is here as Tánaiste, I wish to take a look forward to when he is Taoiseach. It would be nice to have on record his support for the referendum on the Constitution and a statement to the effect that it is not only a question of care but also of who we recognise as families, such that families like mine will be recognised. It would be good to have a few comments on that.

Deputy Carroll MacNeill mentioned promotional bias.

There is an opportunity within the Seanad in the coming months for the Tánaiste to look to women within his party in regard to the position of Cathaoirleach. I am just putting that on his radar for when he is making those decisions regarding promotional bias. It would be nice to see a female Cathaoirleach in the Seanad for the rest of this term.