Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Does the Government propose to allocate time for a debate on the implications of Statutory Instrument No. 7 of 2010? Deputies McManus and Coveney have an interest in this matter. The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland has submitted a claim for an increased levy and this will have a devastating effect and impact on employment in local radio stations. There is no objection to such stations paying a levy. However, there is serious controversy regarding the extent of what is proposed, namely, an increase of approximately €7.6 million this year. It would be appropriate if the implications of this statutory instrument, which has been published, were discussed on Government time. I ask the Taoiseach and the Government Chief Whip to give consideration to this matter.

Is the Taoiseach concerned about the difficulties experienced by public representatives and members of the public as a result of the go-slow involving elements within the public service? I am not raising this matter in the context of the elected representatives in this House. Rather, I am concerned with regard to people who may, for example, want to report children who may be vulnerable or at risk but who cannot do so in certain circumstances because there is no response available from the HSE. Will the Taoiseach report to the House on the arrangements he is making or on the efforts that are being made to restore the public services which people have a right to demand and which they have come to expect?

I wish to refer to an issue that has been raised by Deputy Creed on a number of occasions. Statements were taken in the House on the lost at sea scheme. However, it is necessary to send this matter back to the relevant committee for further analysis. The Ombudsman has made the point that the Government weighed her report against the rights of Deputy Fahey. Obviously, the Government came out in the Deputy's favour. Will the Taoiseach instruct the Government Chief Whip to ensure that the relevant committee engages in a further analysis of the implications of the lost at sea scheme? It would be in everyone's interests, including those of Deputy Fahey, that those involved should be given the opportunity to pose questions and provide answers before the relevant committee. I ask that the Taoiseach make arrangements in that regard.

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