Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)

I also oppose the proposal for the adjournment of the House. There is a number of compelling matters that ought to detain the House next week. They include the news that the latest chief executive-designate of the Health Service Executive will not now take up the post, given the difficulties in the health service. To put it at its mildest, this is something that ought to be debated in the House. In addition, we must return to the nursing homes issue. The Minister for Finance will recall that in 1990 we had no difficulty in recalling the Dáil in mid-summer to take out a section of the Companies Bill. The measure was put through the House in one day to rescue Mr. Larry Goodman and his meat factories at that time.

We currently have a Bill before the House, a section of which would deal with the issue of an independent inspectorate for nursing homes. If that matter cannot be taken next week, it must be taken before the House rises for the summer recess.

Deputy Kenny referred to the Morris tribunal report. All of us in this House should hang our heads in shame because the Government has never provided time to debate in the House the tribunal's first report. There is no excuse for the House rising next week. It can meet as normal on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday if necessary to discuss an issue so fundamental for our democracy. I oppose the proposal.

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