Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

It is proposed to take No. 7, Supplementary Estimates for Public Services [Votes 25, 26, 27, 31, 32, 35, 37 and 40] (back from committee); No. 7a, motion re establishment of joint committee on economic regulatory affairs; No. 7b, motion re appointment of Members to committee; and No. 3, Legal Practitioners (Irish Language) Bill 2007 — Order for Second Stage and Second Stage.

It is proposed, notwithstanding anything in Standing Orders, that Nos. 7, 7a and 7b shall be decided without debate and in the case of No. 7 shall be moved together and shall be decided by one question which shall be put from the Chair and any division demanded thereon shall be taken forthwith.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

There is one proposal to put to the House. Is the proposal for dealing with Nos. 7, 7a and 7b without debate agreed?

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

We do not agree to this. There was a debate in the committee on the Health Estimate and information was not forthcoming as to the detail of what was being proposed. Our spokesman and members of the committee were frustrated with the information available to them and feel there is a need for further debate this morning so that issue can be properly scrutinised by the Dáil.

On No. 7a, motion re establishment of joint committee on economic regulatory affairs, we are not happy with the terms of reference. We reluctantly agreed to a review of the terms of reference within a year. However, I was surprised to read that the Taoiseach is setting up a parallel expert group to do the same task as he is proposing for this committee and that was not brought to the attention of those drafting the terms of reference. There are unresolved issues in the way this is being handled, but the issue on which we have the greatest concern is the handling of the Health Estimate where there is €250 million involved.

Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

We also oppose the taking of this Estimate. The Minister needs to be aware that it appears there is gross mismanagement in the funding of the health service and that questions raised legitimately by the Labour Party, and by Fine Gael, have simply not been answered by the Minister. For example, €9 million allocated to the southern health board was not spent and the Minister could not tell us why. That is unacceptable. There is a requirement for accountability on how the taxpayers' money is being spent. It is a matter of great concern.

The hidden sting in last week's budget, which was never in the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance's Budget Statement, was a range of charges that the unfortunate patient must bear. In only one area where the charges were increased, for example, access to an accident and emergency department now costs 333% more than it did ten years ago. That is the legacy of Fianna Fáil Government of the past ten years.

We must get answers as to what is happening in terms of the funding of the health service, where the charges are increasing and the services are being cut back. We have no got those answers and we oppose the taking of this Estimate.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Some issues were raised on the Supplementary Estimates in the Select Committee on Health and Children and I understand the Minister has undertaken to put forward that information during the course of the day. The real issue here is the question of the taking of Supplementary Estimates at the end of the financial year.

On the Health Estimate, we are seeking the approval of Dáil Éireann to a technical Supplementary Estimate of €1,000 in respect of Vote 40 for the Health Service Executive for the year ending 31 December 2007. The additional costs arising under certain subheads can be met from savings arising from other subheads on the Vote and what is being sought here is not further moneys, but a technical Supplementary Estimate. Obviously, the debate about health expenditures within those Estimate provisions is a matter that goes on all the time——

Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

It does not go on all the time.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

——but today we are talking about whether further moneys were being voted in the Supplementary Estimate.

The second point I would make relates to matters raised by Deputy Bruton. There is a programme commitment about revising and seeing how we can improve the economic regulatory environment generally. That does not take away from the work of any parliamentary committee. These are matters that are dealt with. Departments proceed with their agendas and in many cases the parliamentary committees augment some of that scrutiny and examination. One does not take away from the other. I do not see the problem.

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I understand the Taoiseach will sign the Lisbon treaty this morning and I wish him well. When will the Government make a decision on the timing of the referendum on the EU treaty? There is no doubt that winning this referendum will not be a pushover. It is important that the Government and other parties who support this referendum have sufficient notice and time to prepare a strong campaign.

I read in the newspapers today that contrary to the impression given by the Taoiseach yesterday, it is open to the Government to introduce an exemption for schools on water charges. Now that we have obtained clarification from the European Commission Environment Directorate-General, will the Government introduce such an exemption for schools? Although it seems to be the intention of Government — to read from the manifesto — the results are not materialising on the ground, where bills are arriving at schools.

Although we passed legislation under the Health Acts to ensure proper inspection of institutions, particularly those in which vulnerable children are cared for, I read in the newspapers this week that there are no inspections in the case of homes providing care for children with serious intellectual disabilities. This is an indictment of Government's failure to——

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Is the Deputy referring to legislation?

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

It will be secondary legislation to introduce the necessary orders to have inspections in place. This is a matter of serious urgency and the consequences of continued delay undermine confidence in an area in which confidence and standards are crucial.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I join the Deputy in saying that the referendum proposal will require a full effort from everybody in the House who supports our membership of the EU and its development to make sure that the issue at stake is the one that dominates the campaign. It is clear that the reform treaty being signed this morning is in many respects a modernisation of the institutional arrangements, which is necessary for the enlarged Union. Bearing in mind the importance of our continued membership of the Union and our positive disposition towards the Union and its achievements, I hope we will be able to conduct the debate in a positive spirit for the benefit of all citizens. In the globalised world in which we live, we need to work with our partners in developing domestic policies and dealing with global challenges such as the environment. The European Union is a leader in all of these areas and we need to be part of that and of the policy formulation that emanates from it in the coming years.

The Cabinet will consider the timing of the referendum early in the new year. The Taoiseach has indicated that the referendum will take place during the course of next year. All parties can take it that they can make their respective preparations and institute cross-party efforts to put forward a positive view of the question being put to the people. I agree that it is important to avoid complacency.

In the matter of an exemption from water charges for schools, I am not au fait with the details of this issue. A question to the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government may produce a more accurate response in terms of the information provided by the Environment Directorate-General. I am not aware of the specifics.

I agree profoundly with the Deputy that the recent reports of abuse in an institution for children with intellectual disabilities are appalling. The abuse, which took place over a period of more than 30 years from 1965 to 1998 must be condemned outright. The Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Devins, has indicated that as a matter of priority he will work with HIQA, the newly established quality authority, to apply standards for and monitoring of health facilities throughout the country and implement basic service level agreements with providers. There is also the question of the introduction of rudimentary inspections such as spot-checks. We will do whatever is required to instil confidence in the public that this issue will be dealt with progressively and in a way that is consistent with the mandate given to HIQA. I share with other Members of the House the outrage at the appalling treatment of those children who were in care and the serious abuse of trust that took place.

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Under the Standards in Public Office Act 2001, this House is required to pass a resolution appointing a former Member of the Houses of the Oireachtas to the Standards in Public Office Commission. When this arose six years ago there was agreement in the House and former Member and Minister Liam Kavanagh was appointed to the commission.

Yesterday, during Question Time, I asked the Taoiseach whether the Government planned to change the membership of the Standards in Public Office Commission. He told me that it was a matter for the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, who would introduce proposals. Subsequently, I wrote to the Tánaiste asking him whether there would be consultation on the appointment, as occurred in 2001. He replied to me by telephone, for which I thank him. I accept his bona fides. He informed me that a decision had been made to replace former Member Liam Kavanagh with the former Fianna Fáil Deputy, Michael Smith.

I wish to raise a number of the matters arising from this decision with the Tánaiste. First, I object in the strongest terms to the misleading reply I received from the Taoiseach yesterday morning.

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

He must have forgotten.

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Second, I object strongly to the fact that there has been no consultation on this matter. I want to make it clear that, when the resolution required to appoint former Deputy Michael Smith as a member of the commission is brought before the House, the Labour Party will oppose it in these circumstances. I say this with some regret because it is a matter on which there should be agreement in the House. It is wrong of the Government to seek to appoint one of its own to the Standards in Public Office Commission without consulting the Opposition parties and to have proceeded with the making of the appointment before a resolution was brought before the House.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Strictly speaking, the resolution is required to be debated in the House.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My consideration of this matter is not a reflection on any outgoing member of the commission. The tenure of office is six years and the former Member, Mr. Liam Kavanagh, who was also a former Minister for the Environment, gave that service. There is a discretion to consider the appointment once the tenure is finished. I would not have been aware of the consultations in 2001, but I will accept Deputy Gilmore's statement that they occurred. If so, fine, but there is no suggestion that the discretion of the Minister for Finance is tempered in that way. Rather, it was a question of my not being aware. I thank the Deputy for accepting my bona fides in that regard.

Given developments and the requirements placed on Members through the Standards in Public Office Act, etc., a more recent former Member would be appropriate. No one would quibble with the suitability of former Deputy Michael Smith for such an appointment given his record in the House and the esteem in which he was held by Deputies present and past, as would have been the case with the former incumbent. The statutory requirement is for a former Member who is not also a Member of the European Parliament. I do not accept the contention that a former member of a Government party is less qualified than a former member of another party. There is no logic in that position. A number of former Members would be eminently suitable for such a position.

The letter I received from Deputy Gilmore at 3.15 p.m. was brought to my attention within one hour and I spoke with him about it by telephone as a matter of courtesy, as no discourtesy was intended. I took it upon myself to telephone Deputy Kenny as the leader of the main Opposition party to explain the situation to him. He accepted my comments in a conversation similar to the one between Deputy Gilmore and me.

As required by the Ethics in Public Office Act, a resolution seeking approval for the appointments — the other appointment being that of the chairman, Justice Matthew Smith — for a period of six years will be moved in both Houses of the Oireachtas next week. Assuming the passage of the resolutions, the Government will advise the President to appoint the chairperson and the Government will appoint Mr. Smith as an ordinary member. While I understand Deputy Gilmore's disappointment following his statements and my conversations with him yesterday and this morning, I ask that he reflect on whether the resolution should be contested. Mr. Smith is eminently suitable for the position and should be appointed. I was not aware of a prior consultation process. The position having gone to a non-party person previously, it would not be remiss of me to suggest that a former member of a Government party would get it this time.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

We cannot debate the issue now, but Deputy Gilmore can make a brief comment. There will be an opportunity to discuss the resolution next week.

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Is it intended to move the resolution next week?

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Yes.

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

This is not about Deputy Michael Smith's personal suitability or otherwise for appointment. Actually, he is former Deputy Michael Smith. He was a recent Member of the House and I still refer to him as "Deputy Smith". I have the height of regard for him and I do not want to make an issue of him, but a number of elements are the wrong way around. First, the Act requires that the appointment be made following the resolution of the House, but the Government has decided who to appoint, which should not be the case. Once agreement has been secured on the resolution, the appointment is made.

Second, a number of issues reflect on the matters discussed previously rather than on the individual. Is it appropriate that someone who was recently a Member, let alone a Minister, should be appointed to this position? Liam Kavanagh was a number of years out of the House. Third, while it is not a matter of individuals, it is not appropriate for the Government to seek to take the position for one of its own given everything that is occurring. The matter should have been discussed with Opposition parties in advance. In the same spirit, I suggest that the Tánaiste should reflect on whether the resolution should be introduced by the Government in circumstances where my party is manifestly unhappy with the way in which the matter has been handled. If the resolution is introduced and an appointment will be made without agreement, we will have no option but to oppose the resolution.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

We will have a debate on the matter. I will allow Deputy Bruton to make a brief comment.

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I was not privy to the conversation between the Tánaiste and the leader of Fine Gael, but we accept his good faith. I agree with Deputy Gilmore that we must apply the regulatory standards to this appointment. We must be careful, as it would be regrettable were the House to divide, but Deputy Gilmore feels strongly on this issue for good reason. The Tánaiste might take time to reflect on how to deal with the matter because dividing the House on an issue of this nature would be a bad way to start work. Some time and consultation would be worthwhile.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I will be brief. Were I aware of a previous procedure — there was no evidence of such in the file, but if it took place, it took place — I would have put the position I am now putting to the House, namely, that Mr. Smith be recommended for appointment. While Deputy Gilmore stated unequivocally that he was making a bona fide political point, which I accept, the former Deputy, Mr. Smith, is eminently capable of doing that job conscientiously and properly, as have former Members.

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

We have an excellent candidate in the former Deputy, Paul McGrath.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I reject the suggestion that there is not a former member of my party who could do this job equally as well as his predecessors.

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I did not say that.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

That is the import of what is being said——

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Stick to the issue.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

——and it is an unfair reflection because former Deputy, Mr. Smith, is either suitable or he is not and from what I hear this morning he is eminently suitable. It remains with the incumbent Minister for Finance to make the appointment.

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

No, it does not.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

It does.

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

It is a resolution of the House.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

To be correct, it is for the Minister for Finance to recommend him for appointment. I have asked the former Deputy, Mr. Smith, if he will be available to take up the position if the resolution is passed and he is available to take up the appointment. I intend putting that resolution to the House and I do not believe it will be necessary to divide the House. Deputy Gilmore may wish to raise a political point, which is a matter for him and his party to make, but having explained the position frankly and openly, I do not believe it requires the House to divide.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

There will be an opportunity to debate the resolution again.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As I said, no discourtesy was intended to anybody.

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Before we move on to the issue I want to raise——

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

That matter is closed.

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I hope there will be a debate.

Regarding standards in public office etc., and perhaps the Leas-Cheann Comhairle can direct me in this regard, how do we ensure that commitments given by the opposite side of the House are met? Two days ago I asked the Taoiseach about a briefing on the Supplementary Estimate in health.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I suggest the Deputy tables a parliamentary question in the normal way.

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

At the Joint Committee on Health and Children yesterday, the Minister promised to give me all the information this morning. That is the reason we divided on that issue.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Is there an issue you want to raise that is appropriate to the Order of Business?

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

On the Health Information and Quality Authority legislation——

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

What legislation?

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Health Information and Quality Authority.

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

It is the amendment Bill. I ask the Tánaiste, and I hope it will be third time lucky, when we will get the Ann O'Doherty report, which is an integral part of the reviews being carried out along with the other HIQA report on Galway. It was promised by the Taoiseach and by the Minister on 6 and 7 November and it is now the second week in December.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Is the publication of that report promised?

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I understand it was promised and that the Minister made it clear that some legal issues have arisen regarding its publication in respect of certain parties involved. That is my recollection of it. That being the case, they have to be——

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Is that sine die?

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

No. They will be dealt with. There are parties who have certain rights in respect of this matter as well. I am not aware of the detail but these legal issues cannot be ignored, as the Deputy knows well.

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I refer once again to the programme for Government commitment to amend the planning laws to ensure that school sites and schools are delivered in a timely fashion where large new housing developments have been built. I asked this question on a previous Order of Business and was informed that the matter would be dealt with in the designated land (housing development) Bill, the heads of which had been agreed by Cabinet. Can the Tánaiste confirm if the matter is dealt with in that Bill? If the heads have been agreed by Cabinet, will they be published and when will the Bill come before the House?

On a non-partisan point, I am aware an announcement will be made today that the first two VEC national schools will be established by September, both of which will be in my constituency.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I call the Tánaiste on the legislation.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I understand the designated land (housing development) Bill, the heads of which have been approved, is due for publication in early 2008. I suggest that tabling a parliamentary question on the specific detail he is inquiring about would be the best way for the Deputy to proceed.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

In the Government's published list of proposed legislation there are two sections. The first, section B, concerns ten Bills in respect of which heads have been agreed and texts are being drafted. Section C concerns Bills in respect of which heads have yet to be approved by the Government. In both cases publication is expected in 2008, as it is for the remaining 50 or 60 Bills. Given the expected rate of delivery of this Government, when will these Bills be published and brought before the House? Does the Tánaiste have any idea of the number that have been approved by Government? I presume some of them have been approved. Will the parliamentary draftsman be working over Christmas to try to get them ready for the Government nod of approval when the time comes? It is important——

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Thank you, Deputy. I will try to call a number of Deputies. We are already well over time.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am anxious to ascertain what progress has been made.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

A number of Bills will be published before the resumption of the next term and will be taken in the next term. Others require further departmental and Government consideration and they give a general indication that they will be published next year. I cannot be any more specific than that.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

That is very vague, Tánaiste. Mañana once again. Santa Claus will come next year as well.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Deputy Durkan is always hungry for legislation.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

He eats, drinks and sleeps drafting.

Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I wish to raise three issues. First, the student support Bill has been promised for a long time. It was to come forward in this session but that has not happened. The second issue has been raised already but an answer was not given in respect of it. It concerns the lack of information from the health service.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Do you have a question on legislation, Deputy? I am trying to accommodate a number of Deputies.

Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

This question is specific to legislation.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

What is the Bill?

Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The health information Bill.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

We just had a question about that.

Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

We did not get an answer. It is a vitally important issue——

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The only answer you can get concerns when it will be taken.

Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

——because we are not getting answers on health.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Hear, hear.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I call the Tánaiste on the two items of legislation.

Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I said I wanted to raise three issues. On the issue of the EirGrid legislation, two weeks ago the Tánaiste told this House that the problems in the Cavan, Monaghan and Meath areas were being headlined by Fine Gael. I advise the Tánaiste that one of his party's councillors was on radio encouraging people to discuss the issue.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I call the Tánaiste on the two items of legislation.

Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

When can we have a debate on EirGrid in the Dáil? When will the decision be made as to whether the cable will be laid above or below ground?

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I want to call other Deputies.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Issues to be debated in the House are a matter for the Whips at any time and we try to get agreement on that. These are strategic infrastructures that are required. Deputies talk about the need for improving competitiveness, energy costs and so on and, consistent with dealing with public issues of concern, we wish to proceed with that as soon as possible. I am aware, however, that this issue has raised concerns and it is important that accurate and responsible information is available at all times to ensure we do not inflame a situation beyond a rational debate on these questions.

The student support Bill is due in January. On the health information Bill, work has only commenced on the drafting of a discussion document in preparation for a regular impact analysis and public consultation on the proposals. I do not believe that is imminent and as was said in earlier contributions, there are other issues that will take a slightly higher priority.

Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

According to the programme for Government a Green Paper on local government was to come before the House this week. A commitment was given that within six months of the Government coming to power that Green Paper would be before us. In that regard, a commitment was also given by the Taoiseach that a commission on the boundaries for local elections would be established. Will the Tánaiste indicate if that commission has been established and, if not, when it will be established and when that report will come before the House to inform us on what will happen with regard to the local elections, which are just over a year away?

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Plans are afoot to set up a commission to examine local authority boundaries in the context of the subsequent work done at national level by the constituency commission. While it takes away somewhat from being able to come forward with a Green Paper on local authority reform within the period set out in the programme for Government, it is expected the Minister will be able to introduce some proposals in that regard in the first half of next year.

Emmet Stagg (Kildare North, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The information given to the House previously by the Taoiseach was that a commission was to be set up forthwith and it would report in March of this year.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Perhaps a parliamentary question to the appropriate Minister should be tabled.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

It is a separate issue. I do not wish to contradict that but Deputy Ciarán Lynch raised a separate matter on a Green Paper on local authority structures and reform.

Emmet Stagg (Kildare North, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Tánaiste is getting good at confusing us.

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

That is easy to do.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

No, that is not the case. The Deputies can have a discussion on it between themselves as it might help. I always believed the Labour Whip ruled that side of the House with an iron hand.

Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Earlier this week, the Taoiseach undertook to communicate with me concerning whether it was the Government's intention to ratify the European convention on migrant workers and their families. I have not had a communication yet on this. Will the Tánaiste inform me what are the Government's intentions?

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My apologies to the Deputy and I will ask the matter be dealt with immediately and that he is informed of the situation.

David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

What are the positions on the ombudsman Bill and adoption Bill?

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The ombudsman amendment Bill will be published before the start of the next session. The adoption Bill is due for this session.

Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I put down two parliamentary questions which were replied to on Tuesday on the role of the Department of Finance, the Minister for Finance and his predecessors in the proposed casino in Dublin and any discussions that took place between the Sonas consortium and the Department.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

That is not a matter that can be raised on the Order of Business.

Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I will put the questions down again today. I expect the Minister to give a proper reply on the role of his predecessors.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

This is not a matter for the Order of Business.

Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

If it is not properly answered, I will have to raise it again in the House.

P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Seeing that the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance is in the driving seat this morning, it is only once a week we have an opportunity to question him. In the Supplementary Estimates for Public Services, is the Tánaiste aware of the serious lack of funding for the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food?

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am fearful this might not be in order.

P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Farm improvement grants were not issued on 31 October.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I advise the Deputy who has much experience that there may be another way to raise the matter. I call Deputy Kathleen Lynch.

P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

There are thousands of farmers who wish to participate in the scheme. Their applications have been put on the backburner.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am sure the Deputy will find adequate ways of raising his concerns. The Deputy might give way to Deputy Kathleen Lynch.

P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

There is a Supplementary Estimate giving €1,000 for salaries and expenses to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food——

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Please Deputy Sheehan.

P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

——but €50 million is given to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government——

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I call Deputy Kathleen Lynch.

P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

——and up to €100 million for the Department of Education and Science.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Please, Deputy Sheehan.

Deputies:

This is all for the Southern Star.

P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Meanwhile the farmers grants are put on the backburner.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I call on Deputy Kathleen Lynch.

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am loth to cut across Deputy Sheehan.

P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Has the Tánaiste any answer for me?

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

We have given €5.7 billion in agricultural supports.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Tánaiste, will you allow Deputy Kathleen Lynch to put her question?

P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Tánaiste and Minister for Finance's budget has a lack of finance for the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am loth to cut Deputy Sheehan off as the Boundary Commission has decided 50% of the Cork North-Central constituency will be rural. I support Deputy Sheehan on his point.

Last year I raised an issue on a report from the Pensions Board. If a spouse dies and the remaining spouse remarries, be they male or female, they lose the deceased spouse's pension.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

That is not in order.

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

It was promised legislation. The Tánaiste and Minister for Finance stated that as soon as he read the report, he would consider legislation in the area.

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

These issues are taken up in the Green Paper on pensions which is up for discussion. The possibility of updating pensions legislation to deal with these issues might be more appropriate. We must await what comes back from the Green Paper discussions. Her issue should be part of these discussions.