Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Does the Tánaiste propose to make a statement on pensions? There are two reports on the issue but no legislative proposals from the Government. Some €9 billion, or 5%, has been wiped off the value of Irish pensions in the past month and citizens are extremely concerned as a consequence. One should contrast the position on private pensions with that on ministerial pensions. This issue is of grave concern. Does the Tánaiste propose to comment on the matter and are we to have a debate on it?

I have noticed some Ministers and Fianna Fáil Members talking about consensus, particularly in regard to the health service. I understand the Government is to publish legislation on contributions towards nursing home payments soon. The document, Guide to A Fair Deal: The Nursing Home Care Support Scheme 2008, cites a number of examples of the proposals for those entering public or private nursing homes. This matter will be of serious concern nationwide and affect every single household at some stage or other. In the context of seeking consensus, will the Government publish the heads of the Bill about which it is talking in order that members of all parties and none can focus on this issue which is critical for the entire population? Will the Tánaiste agree to this in order that we can focus on the elements of the debate on which decisions will have to be made, given that people accept the principle of making a contribution towards the cost of a health service?

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