Dáil debates
Wednesday, 6 July 2011
Order of Business
11:00 am
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is proposed to take No. 8, motion re presentation and circulation of Revised Estimates 2011; No. 4, Electoral (Amendment) Bill 2011 - Second Stage (resumed); the Foreshore (Amendment) Bill 2011 [Seanad] - Order for Second Stage and Second and Remaining Stages, subject to completion in the Seanad, to be included on a supplementary Order Paper and to be taken at 3.45 p.m.; and No. 14. - Finance (No. 3) Bill 2011, Order for Report, Report and Final Stages.
It is proposed, notwithstanding anything in Standing Orders, that: (1) the Dáil shall sit later than 8.30 p.m. and business shall be interrupted not later than 10 p.m.; (2) No. 8 shall be decided without debate and any division demanded thereon shall be taken forthwith; (3) the proceedings in relation to the resumed Second Stage of No. 4. shall, if not previously concluded, be brought to a conclusion at 1.30 p.m.; (4) subject to completion in the Seanad, Second and Remaining Stages of the Foreshore (Amendment) Bill 2011 [Seanad] shall be taken at 3.45 p.m. and the following arrangements shall apply: (i) the proceedings on the Second Stage shall, if not previously concluded, be brought to a conclusion at 5.50 p.m.; the opening speech of a Minister or Minister of State and of the main spokespersons for Fianna Fail, Sinn Féin and the Technical Group, who shall be called upon in that order, shall not exceed 15 minutes in each case, the speech of each other Member called upon shall not exceed ten minutes in each case, Members may share time, and a Minister or Minister of State shall be called upon to make a speech in reply which shall not exceed five minutes; (ii) the proceedings on the Committee and Remaining Stages shall, if not previously concluded, be brought to a conclusion at 7 p.m. by one question which shall be put from the Chair and which shall, in relation to amendments, include only those set down or accepted by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food; (5) Private Members' business shall be No. 24, motion re hospital services (resumed), shall take place at 7 p.m. or on the conclusion of Second and Remaining Stages of the Foreshore (Amendment) Bill 2011 [Seanad], whichever is the later, and shall conclude after 90 minutes; and (6) the Report and Final Stages of No. 14 shall be taken today and the proceedings thereon shall, if not previously concluded, be brought to a conclusion at 10 p.m. by one question which shall be put from the Chair and which shall, in relation to amendments, include only those set down or accepted by the Minister for Finance.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
There are six proposals to be put to the House. Is the proposal that the Dáil shall sit later than 8.30 p.m. agreed to?
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I bring to the Ceann Comhairle's attention, because it is very important, the promised publication of the Medical Practitioners (Amendment) Bill 2011, all Stages of which are scheduled to be taken tomorrow. It was promised that it would be published and distributed on Monday.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We can deal with that on the Order of Business. It is not related to this matter.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is because I am objecting to it. I want to make my point. The Bill was to have been distributed on Monday. Last night I made inquiries of the Minister's office and we were told the Bill would not be available until tomorrow morning, the day all Stages-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
What does that have to do with the Dáil sitting late?
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
As the protector of Members of the House and to allow for the proper scrutiny of all legislation-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
By all means but can we-----
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I am making the point that only following intervention have we now received the Bill on the eve of the proposed taking of all Stages of, I acknowledge, required legislation.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The proposal I have put is that the Dáil shall sit later than 8.30 p.m.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
To whom will I put the question?
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Put it to me but-----
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I am putting it to the Ceann Comhairle.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Put it after this-----
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
As the protector of Members' interests and to ensure the proper address of all legislation in this House, the Ceann Comhairle should use his good offices to reflect not only to the Minister for Health but to all Departments-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Deputy is totally out of order.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
-----that legislation should be circulated in good time for proper scrutiny and careful evaluation in advance of debate. That is my point.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I do not understand the Deputy's point at this particular juncture.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
There is no other place for me to hang it. The Ceann Comhairle is a long time in this House and he will understand very well-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I understand that when a proposal is has been put-----
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
-----that I must avail of the opportunity to make the point. The Minister should understand-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Deputy should resume his seat.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
-----and be sympathetic to the point I am making.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
There are six proposals to be put to the House. I am putting the first proposal, which is that the Dáil shall sit later than 8.30 p.m. tonight. Is that agreed? Agreed. That is the point I was making.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I hope the Ceann Comhairle understands the point I was making also.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The second proposal deals with No. 8, motion re presentation and circulation of Revised Estimates 2011. Is that agreed? Agreed. Is the proposal for dealing with No. 4, Second Stage of the Electoral (Amendment) Bill 2011, agreed to?
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is not agreed. This is the first of three Bills where a guillotine is proposed today. The Taoiseach is quickly becoming the Madame Defarge of the Thirty-First Dáil. All he is short of is a knitting set.
Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is better than being one of the three stooges.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We should get on with it.
James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Will the Deputy have enough speakers?
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I would rather be a stooge than a stool pigeon like the Minister, Deputy Shatter.
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Minister for Star Trek. He should remember the leaflets he sent out.
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
A Cheann Comhairle-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Please allow the Deputy to continue, although he is inviting the interruptions.
Mattie McGrath
Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is the young lad beside him.
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
In fairness, I am trying to be kind to the Government backbenchers.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I know all of that. I appreciate the Deputy's generosity but he should get on with it.
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is reported in the press that the backbenchers feel frustrated at not having sufficient time to express themselves in this Dáil.
Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We are frustrated listening to you.
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
There are three guillotines before us and if we allow the practice now, what will happen in the autumn, when far more pressure comes on this Dáil from legislation and other issues? Has the Government Chief Whip ascertained how many speakers are offering on the Electoral (Amendment) Bill, how many have been cut and why the Government proposes three guillotines? It promised, as one of its reforms, that the guillotine would rarely be used.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I understand there was a briefing on this on Monday, and this will allow for Committee Stage to be taken appropriately. There will be ample opportunity to make amendments and debate those, as the Deputy always does.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Is the proposal for dealing with Second and Subsequent Stages of the Foreshore (Amendment) Bill 2011 agreed to? Agreed. Is the proposal for dealing with Private Members' Business agreed to? Agreed. Is the proposal for dealing with No. 14, Order for Report, Report and Final Stages of the Finance (No. 3) Bill 2011 agreed to? Agreed.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Minister for Health has announced his intention to abolish the Health Service Executive and take direct legal and legislative responsibility for decisions where he currently only has administrative responsibilities. This will include decisions to withdraw services from local hospitals.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Will the Taoiseach indicate when the legislation will be published?
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Minister will bring forward proposals later this year to abolish the HSE board by amending the Health Act 2004. It will be necessary in that context to put alternative arrangements in place to ensure appropriate corporate governance of the HSE in the absence of that board.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
So it is just the board. It will not be the executive.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It will be later this year. The Minister will bring forward proposals to the Government later this year to abolish the HSE board by amending the 2004 Act.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
That is the board. What about the HSE? That was the promise he made.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The promise was to abolish the entire HSE.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Sometimes the Deputy jumps to conclusions.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
No, I listened very carefully to what the man said.
Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
That is what the Deputy heard.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We probably took him and the Taoiseach too much at face value. We are genuinely seeking clarity on the issue. Is the legislation to abolish the board or the entire HSE?
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Minister will bring forward proposals later this year to abolish the HSE board by amending the Health Act 2004.
Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is just the board.
Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I am bored listening to the Taoiseach.
Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The programme for Government contains the commitment - or threat - to break up the ESB by stripping it of its transmission assets. The Government has in its possession the Cahill report, which clearly sets out the lunacy of that approach. Nevertheless, I see the legislative programme envisages an electricity transmission assets Bill. When is it proposed to publish the Cahill report and what will be the timetable of the Bill? The uncertainty hanging over this large State utility is causing great difficulties for business and investment planning, and it also has industrial relations implications. The Cahill report should be published so we can have the debate and keep the ESB strong and intact.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Cahill report has not yet come to the Government and the Minister will bring forward a memo in due course. The report will be published and the Deputy will be well informed on the matter.
Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Minister has the report. I have had correspondence with him and he is deliberately failing to publish a report paid for by taxpayers-----
Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
-----as the report shows the flaw in Government policy.
Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The report must be published-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Does the Deputy hear me?
Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
-----as a matter of urgency.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We are discussing promised legislation.
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I have a question for the Taoiseach under Standing Order 36. It appears the posse of men who rode into town last November posing as good samaritans are ripping off blind the Irish people. With only two weeks before the Dáil breaks, will the Taoiseach arrange for a comprehensive report and debate on the real implications of the memorandum of agreement between the IMF-EU and the Government with regard to the incredible €9 billion rip-off?
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Sorry, Deputy-----
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
What other secrets are contained in the execution of that memorandum in the alleged name of solidarity?
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Perhaps the Deputy could get in touch with his Whip in seeking a debate on the issue.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Deputy is entitled to ask for a debate on an issue at the Whips' meeting. All of the detail of the headline spoken of by the Deputy was raised and dealt with at Question Time with the Minister for Finance yesterday. As the Deputy is aware, this Government took over when certain obligations were signed by the previous Administration, and those figures are not new. If the Deputy wishes to have a debate about any issue, he should feel free to raise it at the Whips' meeting, the appropriate forum to do so.
Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I seek leave to move a motion of censure against the Minister for Justice and Equality relating to his withholding of information from the House with regard to the Smithwick tribunal. I seek Government time to have this debated as soon as possible.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Is the Government offering time for the motion?
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
There is a motion of censure down against the Minister for Justice and Equality and it is a matter for the party opposite. If it wishes to move it in private Members' time the party is free to do so. It is a bogus motion as all the issues have been dealt with by the Minister, Deputy Shatter, and the correspondence referred to has been laid before the Oireachtas Library. As I stated yesterday, it is only right and proper that when this House establishes tribunals of inquiry to consider any matter, the taxpayer funds those tribunals. In this case the motion establishing the Smithwick tribunal required that within ten days of public hearings, an interim report would be produced. The Minister for Justice and Equality is quite right in having the public given up to date reports on the progress of the tribunal.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Taoiseach is avoiding the issue.
Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Yes, the Minister withheld information.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
All the correspondence is available and if the party wishes to pursue the motion of censure, it should do so in private Members' time.
Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
On a point of order, the Minister came into the debate on 1 June in possession of information which was directly relevant to the debate. He deliberately withheld it.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Sorry, that is not a point of order.
Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
One would assume that a motion of censure against a Minister would be taken by the Government as a matter of priority.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is not a point of order.
Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The only bogus thing about this is the withholding of information.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
You will have to move it in Private Members' time.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
A Cheann Comhairle-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Sorry, we are not having a debate on this.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Your role as Cheann Comhairle is to protect the rights of the Members of the House.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Absolutely. I will do that.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
This is a very serious issue. We asked the Taoiseach a question when we allowed this debate to take place. We put it to him clearly that more time should be allowed and that all documentation should be provided to Members before the motion amending the terms of reference came before the House. No such documentation was provided. The Government pressed ahead and guillotined the debate. Members were denied access to crucial correspondence between the Minister and the judge of a tribunal that was established by the Oireachtas. The tribunal was established by the Oireachtas - it is not just a matter for the Government and the Opposition.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
This inquiry was established by the collective membership of this House. Serious documentation was withheld from the Members. Some attempt should be made to-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
You are making a very serious charge here.
Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is a serious charge.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is factual. It happened.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
You are making are a serious charge.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The issue eventually came out through freedom of information.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The judge-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We are dealing with a request for a motion to be taken. The Deputy asked whether the motion can be taken in Government time. The Taoiseach has indicated that it cannot.
Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
A Cheann Comhairle, you said it is serious.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
If the Deputy's party wishes to use its Private Members' time to debate the issue, it can do so. I cannot do anything to force the Government to allow time for a motion to be considered. In effect, it is now a Private Members' motion.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Of course it is a serious matter.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I regard a motion against any Minister as a serious matter.
Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is entirely bogus and Deputy Calleary knows it.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
That is a matter for the Deputies who tabled it.
Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
You are a disgrace to make that allegation.
Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Aithníonn ciaróg ciaróg eile.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
You withheld the documentation.
Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
This is political play-acting.
Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We have the Punch and Judy show again.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I do not need the usual assistance from up there.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
If any other Government behaved like that-----
Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
What happened to the promise to end the Punch and Judy show?
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
-----there would be blue murder and you know it.
Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I note that the Revised Estimates for 2011 are on this morning's clár. In light of the serious developments we are seeing in certain areas, will it be possible for the Dáil to examine the first Estimates for 2012 in the next few weeks, or even on our resumption? For example, this morning-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We cannot debate that now.
Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
-----I received a petition from approximately 1,000 parents.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
That is totally out of order.
Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I want to tell the Taoiseach about the petition I received-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Maybe you can write to him and tell him.
Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
-----from approximately 1,000 parents in Darndale-Belcamp parish.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I have to ask you to resume your seat.
Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It seems that a class for children with moderate learning disabilities may be closed in September, unfortunately.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Will you please resume your seat?
Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I would like the Minister for Education and Skills to look at that situation.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Will you resume your seat now?
Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
He knows the parish well.
Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Man overboard.
Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is one of the areas of Ireland with the lowest take-up of third level education.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Deputy Broughan, please resume your seat.
Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Taoiseach represents the area with the highest take-up of third level education.
Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I think the Government has a man overboard.
Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I am asking the Taoiseach whether we will see the Estimates for 2012-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
No, no. Will you please resume your seat, Deputy?
Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
-----on the floor of the Dáil in the next few months.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I call Deputy Boyd Barrett on the Order of Business.
Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I would like the Taoiseach to answer the question I asked about the timing of Dáil business.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Deputy will have an opportunity to debate all the Estimates at the various committees in due course. It will take place in a much more transparent and accountable form than previously.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
You must be joking.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We had a situation where 15 minutes applied for all-----
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
You must be joking.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
You are joking.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
What you did when you had the authority was a disgrace.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We have not had a committee meeting yet.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We are going to change all of that.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
You will change nothing.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Estimates have not been published yet. When they are, they will be brought before the committees.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
You need not think you are codding anybody.
Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We do not need to go back over that.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We have heard all about the comprehensive spending review.
Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context
According to Standing Order 26(2)(a), the Taoiseach orders the business of the Dáil on the Order of Business and arranges the sittings. In that context, I want to ask the Taoiseach if the Dáil will have a chance to discuss the cannibal logic that the IMF-EU delegation, which is coming here in the next two weeks, is applying to our economy.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Deputy should resume his seat. He is totally out of order.
Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context
That logic involves destroying our economy and our services, supposedly in order to save them.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
He should ask his Whip to raise the matter.
Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is sucking us dry to the tune of €9 billion.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Please resume your seat. You are out of order.
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
On a point of order, Deputy Boyd Barrett is absolutely correct.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
When did Deputy Higgins take over the job of Chair? He should also resume his seat.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Deputy Boyd Barrett is not a member of Deputy Higgins's party, by the way.
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I want to make a point of order, which is my entitlement.
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I am sure you will protect my right to do so.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I will protect your right, but you are totally out of order. You cannot be questioning-----
Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We are looking for clarification.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
There is no point in quoting Standing Order 26(2), which relates to the ordering of business. That is not the point here. This is the Order of Business.
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Taoiseach frequently answers our queries with regard to the ordering of business by referring to the Whips.
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is the business of the Taoiseach, fundamentally, to order the arrangements for sittings-----
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
That is Government business.
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
-----and the business taken in the Dáil.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Yes, that is Government business.
Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Deputies should ensure it is raised this evening.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
No, he should not. He is out of order if he does. Will you resume your seat?
Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context
He should respond to what has been requested by us, rather than fobbing it off to the Whips.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Will you please contact your Whip and ask her to arrange a debate on the issue?
Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Get your Whip to raise it this evening.
Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Every time we ask, the Government Whip says "No".
Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context
We asked about the McCarthy report.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Can we have some order please? I call Deputy Donohoe.
Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The supply of alcohol to minors continues to be a very big problem for gardaí and communities. As the summer approaches, the potential for this problem to flare up again is great. The Government has given a commitment to introduce a sale of alcohol Bill, which will give the Garda and other agencies even greater power to tackle these issues, including the growing problem of the supply of alcohol from private premises. Can the Taoiseach tell the House whether this Bill will be ordered before the summer or later this year?
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Deputy has raised an important point. This Bill will be ordered later this year.
Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
When the Minister for Education and Skills was standing in for the Taoiseach on Leaders' Questions approximately three weeks ago, I asked about the proposals in the programme for Government to assist people who have difficulty paying their mortgages. The Minister, Deputy Quinn, undertook to get back to me within a week. That promise seems to have had the same status as Deputy Reilly's election promises, unfortunately. Will the Taoiseach get back to me on this matter as quickly as possible? Many people are very worried about it. A substantial section of the programme for Government deals with it.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Is the Deputy asking about a promised debate or about a report?
Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I am asking about a list of promises to assist people who have difficulty paying their mortgages. This long list of legislative and administrative proposals takes up half a page of the programme for Government.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Is legislation promised?
Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Government seems to have forgotten about it already. It is in the programme for Government.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Minister for Finance will report progress on this issue directly to the Deputy.
Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I hope he will be much quicker in getting back to me than the Minister for Education and Skills was.
Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I will send some material to the Deputy.
Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Deputy looked well on "Tonight with Vincent Browne". I enjoyed the programme.
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The matter I would like to raise is relevant to the Taoiseach and the Minister for Education and Skills. Apparently, the Office of the Attorney General has advised the Government, or its predecessor, that it is legally acceptable to end the closed school rule, which is an historical commitment that was made to certain rural communities. Will the Government publish this advice and explain the rationale that makes the Government think it is acceptable to bring the rule to an end?
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
That is not promised legislation.
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It should be.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Maybe it should, but that is none of my concern.
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Can I explain my point?
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Deputy should table a question.
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I am raising this matter because a growing number of communities are questioning the legal rationale for this change. They believe legislation should have been introduced to give effect to it.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Can I help the Deputy? There are two ways of raising this matter. He can table a parliamentary question or use his party's private Members' time.
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I have done so.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
What about using private Members' time?
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I think the Taoiseach could respond to what I have said. Will he publish the Attorney General's advice? It is a simple question.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
That is out of order.
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
The Taoiseach will not publish the advice. What does the Government do with the advice it receives from the Attorney General?
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
That is a matter for the Government.
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Does it accept it and say it is fine? One needs to have hundreds of thousands of euro if one wants to go through the High Court or the Supreme Court to get that information.
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I call Deputy Niall Collins.
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context
It is not right.
Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
At a committee meeting yesterday, the Minister, Deputy Varadkar, informed us that Dundalk Port Company has failed to meet its obligations to maintain its pension fund properly and to register with the Pensions Board and has reneged on a number of other responsibilities. He said he sought to refer the matter to the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement but he received legal advice from the Attorney General to the effect that he could not do so because company law does not provide for it. Does the Government have any plans to amend the Companies Acts to allow action to be taken in the event of corporate governance failures by companies like Dundalk Port Company?
Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context
Is there promised legislation in this area?
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
There is no promised legislation.
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
A companies Bill is on the agenda.
Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I am sure the Minister, Deputy Varadkar, will consider the consequences of what he told the committee yesterday.
Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
I will not bother informing them.