Dáil debates
Thursday, 16 November 2006
Order of Business
10:30 am
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is proposed to take No. 1, Europol (Amendment) Bill 2006 [Seanad] — Second Stage; and No. 4, Industrial Development Bill 2006 — Order for Second Stage and Second Stage.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
There are no proposals to put to the House on the Order of Business.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Yesterday, the Tánaiste viewed with disbelief the information provided by Opposition Members on the closing down of nursing homes. It seems the Government is terrified of the truth of these matters emerging. I understand the HSE announced this morning that no patients should be accepted by four further nursing homes.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Does Deputy Kenny have a question appropriate to the Order of Business?
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
When these are added to the exposé by Deputy O'Dowd last night of a further case, which made a mockery of the Minister's statement yesterday, it appears this matter is very serious.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We cannot have a debate on the matter. As the Deputy knows, it was discussed for three hours over the last two nights and was the subject of Leaders' Questions on Tuesday and Wednesday. There is no provision for Leader's Questions on Thursday.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is a sad day when the Opposition as distinct from the Government has to deal with this. When will the legislation governing the independent nursing homes inspections be introduced?
Over the past few weekends Deputy O'Donnell and Senator Minihan have been far more active than the Tánaiste in respect of his tax policy on stamp duty. Does the Tánaiste still believe the Government does not require €2.5 billion in stamp duty revenue?
Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We will give the Government a shopping list.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I suggest Deputy Kenny submits a question to the line Minister. There is no provision for Leaders' Questions on Thursday.
Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste has spoken publicly on it.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Is the Tánaiste proposing to include this in the Finance Bill next year? When will the Údarás na Gaeltachta Bill be published? It was promised in 2004 and is on the list of promised legislation.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Regarding the health Bill, the Taoiseach has indicated three times over the past few days that it is being drafted. It was the subject of extensive consultation, the heads of the Bill were published last March and it will be dealt with when the Dáil resumes in the new year. The extensive consultation process elicited a large number of public submissions on the draft heads of the Bill. While I appreciate that the Deputies opposite have other things to do, no input was received from any political party in the course of the valuable public consultation.
Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We are the representatives here.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
In respect of the Údarás na Gaeltachta Bill——
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
——it is expected next year.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We were not asked. This is the forum we must use because of the secret way the Government does business.
Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Deputy Kenny was caught out.
Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste has opinions on everything.
Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste is now taking on the Taoiseach's practice of blaming the Opposition. We are Members of this House and legislators. The Government embarked on a lengthy consultation process. As a result there is no legislation in place to protect the elderly from institutional abuse. That is the legacy of the Government for which the Tánaiste must take responsibility.
Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Whose fault is that?
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Sorry, Deputy, we cannot have a debate on it.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Deputy McManus is out of order.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Chair has ruled. We cannot have an omnibus question time, nor can we have Second Stage speeches.
Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I am not out of order. I have two questions on promised legislation and I intend to ask them. We were promised the health Bill in 2006 to protect elderly people from institutional abuse. Will that legislation not appear until 2007? In the meantime, can we not have a short emergency Bill to at least give the authority that is in place, HIQA, some power to protect elderly residents of nursing homes? The Tánaiste might remember that the House was recalled to pass emergency legislation to bail out Mr. Larry Goodman. Are we not in a position to protect our elderly by introducing emergency legislation?
Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Does the Cabinet have the courage to deal with patient safety in respect of fertility clinics? The High Court decision has opened a door that enables the Government to introduce promised legislation to regulate assisted human reproduction, in vitro fertilisation. There are no regulations, protections or safeguards at present, which is a most serious lacuna in our legislation. Will the Tánaiste assure us that promised legislation will be fast-tracked so that the Bill will be published in early 2007?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The legislation I mentioned will be published this session and debated as soon as the Dáil resumes after Christmas. It is not a good idea to put aside this Bill and pass emergency legislation.
Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste can do two things at once.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
When Deputy McManus's party was in power, no progress was made.
Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
These parties have been ten years in government.
Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Which party was that? Deputy McManus was in many parties, including the Workers Party, Democratic Left, New Agenda and now the Labour Party.
Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Minister, Deputy Dermot Ahern, should not forget about the trees in north Dublin.
Pádraic McCormack (Galway West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste was in Fine Gael then.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
On the High Court decision on frozen embryos, the Tánaiste has instructed officials in her Department to commence——
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Sorry, the former Tánaiste.
Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste is having a bad hair day. His memory serves him correctly.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I am glad that my innate humility comes out yet again on this occasion.
Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste should stop before he puts both feet in it.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Minister for Health and Children has instructed her officials to commence drafting the legislation to deal with this matter. A commission examined the matter, as did an Oireachtas committee, a sub-committee of which produced a draft report. Legislation will be put in place. It is not a question of political cowardice, this is a delicate issue in which there are a variety of interests. Many people will be dissatisfied with the outcome of whatever legislation is put in place.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is about more than patient safety, it is about ethical issues to deal with embryos, and that is not a patient safety issue alone.
Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Patients cannot be put at risk because of the Government's irresponsibility, and that is what we are talking about.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We cannot have a debate now. Allow the Tánaiste to continue.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Minister for Health and Children is determined to deal with the regulation of fertility clinics.
Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
What about the Cabinet? Will the Tánaiste assure us the Cabinet will not delay this?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The entire Cabinet is so determined. There is no political reluctance to deal with this issue.
Emmet Stagg (Kildare North, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Why has it not been done before now?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
A commission on assisted reproduction reported——
Emmet Stagg (Kildare North, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Why did the Government not do its business?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
——a committee of this House prepared a report on the issue and legislation will be published. I do not see the problem Deputies have with this matter.
Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Does the Tánaiste expect the legislation to be published before the election?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I do.
Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Let us not hold our breath.
John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Given the horrific problems in our nursing homes, does the Tánaiste intend to reconsider legislation in respect of tax relief for the owners of nursing homes? It is the Government's profit before people philosophy that is the root cause of this.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Is legislation promised? We cannot have a debate on the matter.
John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
People are cutting corners in nursing homes to make money at the expense of the most vulnerable people in Irish society. The philosophy of the Government has led to this problem.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
As the Chair has pointed out, this matter was discussed for three hours over the past two nights and it was the subject of Leaders' Questions. There is no provision for Leaders' Questions on Thursday. Tánaiste, is legislation promised?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
No legislation is promised. Yet again, ideology is blinding Deputy Gormley to the reality.
Dan Boyle (Cork South Central, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Whose ideology? The Tánaiste is sponsoring bad practice.
John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Your right wing ideology is leading to this problem.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Let me answer. There is no point in behaving like a fascist over there.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
If the Tánaiste addresses his remarks through the Chair it might be easier to control the disorderly Deputies.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Legislation is not required because the public and private sectors are putting unprecedented resources into nursing homes, and anything that encourages more money to be invested is a good thing, not a bad thing.
Damien EnglishJohn Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Patients are lying in their own urine.
Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste is aware that traffic conditions around the city are deteriorating at present. The metro Bill was promised last year for publication this year. Although it was to streamline procedures and reduce costs, it appears to have disappeared from the agenda. Is it to be published or will it ever be dealt with? It was to be published this year, but 2006 is now drawing to a close.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Dublin transportation authority legislation is due for publication this session. The Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006 overtook the particular Bill to which the Deputy referred.
Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Although Ruhama and the Tánaiste's Department have highlighted the incidence of trafficking of human beings across Europe and from other quarters, there is no legislation on the Statute Book here. Moreover, the Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings, agreed by the Council of Europe two years ago, has not been signed off by the Tánaiste's Department. Is Ireland likely to sign that convention? Is the Tánaiste likely to induce the Government to sign it? This has been waiting for signature for two years. Is the Tánaiste likely to introduce legislation that would deal with and combat trafficking in human beings?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The legislation in question is at an advanced stage of drafting and will be introduced early next year. This will enable Ireland to sign all the relevant conventions.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Given that the Government is embarking on one of the most far-reaching developments ever in the health service, namely, the co-location of ten private hospitals at public hospital sites, and that there is no mandate or legislation for this——
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Does the Deputy have a question on legislation?
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Yes. I want——
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
He should come directly to the question.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Specifically, in respect of this important matter, will the Government facilitate a proper debate in this Chamber?
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Is a debate promised?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
A debate is not promised on that issue.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
If a debate is not promised, it is a matter for the Whips. I call Deputy McCormack.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Will a debate be provided for it? It is of great importance and——
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Sorry, Deputy, unless a debate is promised it is not appropriate to raise it on the Order of Business.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
——it must be recognised by the Government that this is of such import that it deserves——
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I call Deputy McCormack.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
——such address in this Chamber.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Deputy knows how to go about it. I call Deputy McCormack.
Pádraic McCormack (Galway West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
On promised legislation, is the Tánaiste aware of the difficulties being experienced by many pharmacists because of the delayed introduction of the pharmacy Bill? Some non-Irish trained pharmacists are having their rights of supply and contracts with the Health Service Executive withdrawn because of the Government's delay in introducing the Bill. Will it be introduced this session?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The answer is "Yes".
Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
In view of the absence from the Order Paper of the postal services Bill, is it intended to re-introduce the Bill? Perhaps the Tánaiste will share his vision for the future development of the postal services. He usually shares his views on most matters.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste, on legislation.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
While I would be glad to share my views on this matter with the Deputy, I will do so afterwards.
Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste should be brave.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
No legislation is promised.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I call Deputy Gormley.
John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I did not indicate.
Paul Gogarty (Dublin Mid West, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Perhaps the Ceann Comhairle was referring to me.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Sorry, I call Deputy Gogarty.
Paul Gogarty (Dublin Mid West, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Deputy Gormley and I are quite alike. We could be twins.
Will the student support Bill be published before Christmas? If so, in the Tánaiste's estimation, will all Stages of the Bill be passed before next June?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The commitment is to publish the Bill this session so that it can be debated by the House in the coming session.
Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Are there are any guidelines in place to advise Ministers as to the events or launches in which they should participate?
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It does not arise on the Order of Business.
Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Does the Tánaiste have any view on the decision of the Minister for Defence to attend a book launch about the late Seán South——
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
This does not arise. I call Deputy McEntee.
Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
——from which he withdrew following advice from his officials? Has the Tánaiste any comment?
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I call Deputy McEntee. Deputy Timmins must find another way to raise this matter.
Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Had the Tánaiste any input into the advice given? This was another gaffe by the Minister for Defence, Deputy O'Dea. He suggested a different approach to the taxi drivers of Limerick than would apply in Dublin. Perhaps he takes different approaches to launching books in Limerick and Dublin.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Deputy Timmins is being disorderly. I ask the Deputy to allow his colleague, Deputy McEntee, to speak.
Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste is raring to go.
Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
He is a multifaceted Minister in a multifaceted Government. Had the Tánaiste an input into the decision to induce him to pull out?
John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I believe he is a Garryowen man.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We will be obliged to move on to the next business——
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
——unless he allows his colleague, Deputy McEntee, to speak.
Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste is always quick to comment on such matters. Did he advise the Minister for Defence, Deputy O'Dea, to pull out?
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Deputy Timmins, please resume your seat.
Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Did the Tánaiste advise him?
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I call Deputy McEntee.
Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
This is the first time I have ever silenced——
Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Tánaiste wishes to talk.
Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
He definitely wants to say something.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I call Deputy McEntee.
Shane McEntee (Meath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
On the road safety Bill, Deputies are contacted on a daily basis in respect of road safety outside schools, particularly those on major roads. This is a serious issue. Will the Government consider handing the matter over to the Road Safety Authority, to ensure that our children, both inside and outside schools, will be safe?
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It does not arise. I suggest the Deputy submits a question to the line Minister. I call Deputy Boyle.
Shane McEntee (Meath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I did. This issue pertains to the road safety Bill.
Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Deputy should induce the county councils of which his party has control to do their work.
Shane McEntee (Meath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Children risk their lives on a daily basis.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The question should be raised under the Bill, or raised directly with the line Minister by way of a question.
Dan Boyle (Cork South Central, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I refer to a number of court cases taken by people seeking to buy local authority accommodation and apartments in particular, most recently including some of the Tánaiste's own constituents in Ringsend. What priority is being given to the proposed housing (miscellaneous provisions) Bill? Will the Government present the Bill before the House rises next year?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
That legislation will be published next year.
Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
At the Fianna Fáil Ard-Fheis, the Taoiseach promised a constitutional referendum to enshrine the rights of the child in clear form in the Constitution. Since the Taoiseach set a deadline of March, when will the enabling legislation be introduced? What consultation process is envisaged between now and then regarding the amendment's wording?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Taoiseach has indicated his willingness to promote such a referendum, if there is a wording that attracts general support.
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
He will also engage in a widespread process of consultation. His commitment to address this issue was welcomed by all parties, including that of the Deputy.
Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
To clarify, there was a wide welcome for the Taoiseach's proposal. A qualification has now been introduced by the Tánaiste. Does the Government intend and has the Government decided to introduce legislation to enable a referendum to take place to enshrine the rights of the child?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
While the Taoiseach has indicated he is prepared to amend the Constitution, he wishes to engage in a process of consultation. On a matter of constitutional importance, one does not simply state that something will be put into the constitution, no matter——
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
No, one does not. He stated he would engage in a process of consultation. If, having welcomed his announcement, the Deputies opposite have some input on this matter, the Government would be glad to have it.
Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Can Members see details of his proposals?
Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
In last year's budget, the Minister for Finance abolished the levy on bank profits and instead promised Members the development of a social fund for social capital. Nothing has been heard about this, although the Minister has promised action on it——
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Is legislation promised?
Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context
No.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
No legislation is promised.
Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
This year, the banks have announced even greater record profits. They received a present last year of an extra €300 million.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Deputy Burton——
Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
What is the Government's position? This was promised.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I suggest Deputy Burton submits a question to the line Minister. We are finished.
Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I refer to two items of legislation. When will legislation be introduced to establish the national consumer agency on a statutory footing, in light of the recent 34% increase in gas prices?
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Is national consumer agency legislation promised?
Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I refer to the revelation that there will also be an 8% increase in gas supply charges and a 20% increase in electricity charges in the new year.
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It does not arise on the Order of Business.
Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Moreover, there has been much blunder and bluster by the Government in respect of the sale of alcohol to young people and underage drinking. When will the proposed sale of alcohol Bill be introduced?
Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We are moving on.