Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Workers and Unemployed Action Group)

It is outrageous that ten minutes into this debate there is still no Minister present in the Chamber. While I accept someone could be delayed for a few minutes, ten minutes into a debate appears to be a deliberate affront to the Opposition and community and voluntary sector, the subject of this Private Members' motion.

I compliment Sinn Féin's extensive motion that goes to the heart of the work done by community and voluntary organisations. The sector provides services, many of which should be provided by the Government. I have a significant involvement in this sector through a child-care facility in Elm Park, Clonmel, and through the provision of services and residences for women suffering domestic violence. I commend all those who work in these areas.

However, this sector is now the target of budgetary cuts. It is the last area that should come under such a review while the cuts already implemented should be reversed. The Government refers to funding and financial difficulties. If it were serious about making moneys available for this sector, it would go after the very wealthy individuals with huge assets who are still not taxed. Sometimes I feel like a broken record when I raise this matter but if those individuals were taxed, there would be no need for cuts in this and many other areas.

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