Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

In response to a question from Deputy Rabbitte yesterday, the Taoiseach stated his intention to bring forward new proposals regarding the rights of MPs elected for Northern Ireland to speak in the Oireachtas. On the previous occasion when the Taoiseach brought forward a proposal in this regard, a serious disagreement occurred between Fianna Fáil and the Progressive Democrats within Government, proving that those parties do not agree on all matters. On the next occasion the Taoiseach puts forward such a proposal, will it be a Government proposal as distinct from an individual party proposal? When will this be?

The Government yesterday discussed a range of options on caring for the elderly. It was reported today that this was with a view to bringing the matter to social partnership talks. Deputy Bruton, among others, has made the point on many occasions that the only people not consulted about social partnership are the Members in this House, all parties and none. Given that everybody here would have their own views regarding options on care for the elderly and the changing demographics of the country, would the Tánaiste think it appropriate for the Government to bring forward its views here or produce a Green Paper for discussion? Everybody, from all parties and none, could then give their views. This could then be brought to social partnership talks rather than having a scenario where the Government discusses the matter but makes no decision and we then hear about various aspects of the matter on the news without anybody in the House being consulted. Everybody here clearly has their own views on the matter.

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