Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is proposed to take No. a13, motion re membership of committees; No. 4, Fiscal Responsibility Bill 2012 - Second Stage (resumed); and No. 16, statements on philanthropy and the arts (resumed). It is proposed, notwithstanding anything in Standing Orders, that No. a13 shall be decided without debate. Private Members' business shall be No. 63, motion re agriculture (resumed), to conclude at 9 p.m. tonight, if not previously concluded.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is one proposal to be put to the House. Is the proposal for dealing with No. a13, without debate, agreed to? Agreed.

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am unsure whether the Taoiseach read the Irish Examiner this morning but there is an interesting headline: "Child benefit scare tactics 'hit economy'". It refers to and accurately reports the comments of the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Leo Varadkar, to the effect that the various kite flying exercises that have gone on have damaged consumer confidence to the extent that it has gone down ten points.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

This is the Order of Business, Deputy.

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He refers to comments in terms of child benefit cuts, cuts to the disability allowance and the property tax.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

This is the Order of Business.

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

My question relates to forthcoming legislation. We understand from another report that Ministers were discussing bringing forward the date of the budget because, without question, what has been going on in recent weeks is damaging consumer confidence and jobs. Can the Taoiseach confirm the date of the budget and when the finance Bill will be forthcoming? I realise he is consulting with the Minister, Deputy Varadkar, but the Minister was clear yesterday in the Dáil about the damage Ministers are heaping on the economy and the damage Ministers are doing to consumer confidence by the serial leaking and kite flying. I have been on the doorsteps talking to people about the property tax-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Sorry, Deputy, this is the Order of Business.

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am asking about the budget.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We are not talking about the budget. We are discussing promised legislation.

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I want the time.

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I want the time for the resolutions and the finance Bill. Can we get confirmation of when the budget will happen and when the finance Bill will occur?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am glad Deputy Martin has been on the doorsteps. Let me confirm that the Government has not considered the question of child benefit. The Government has not considered the question of disability benefit. The Government has not considered the question of property taxes.

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

What is it doing?

Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Has the Government considered anything?

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Does the Taoiseach not believe the Minister, Deputy Varadkar?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is in the newspaper. I am telling Deputy Martin what is the story. Ministers have not discussed-----

Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Taoiseach should answer the question.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Would you mind, please? Plenty of other Deputies want to speak. Deputy Dooley, you indicated you wanted to speak. Would you mind allowing other people to speak? Thank you.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Let me give it here to Deputy Martin.

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He said it was probably due to Ministers and others talking about child benefit cuts and property taxes. That is what the Minister, Deputy Varadkar, said.

A Deputy:

Does the Taoiseach agree with him or not?

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He said within one month it had fallen by ten points.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I see you. I hear you.

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

Ministers and others, including Deputy Martin.

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He said within one month it had fallen by ten points.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Excuse me, we are not having a debate on the Order of Business.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

If Deputy Martin wants to talk about the Irish Examiner, it is fair enough.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Would the Taoiseach stick to the legislation?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am confirming for Deputy Martin-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Would the Deputy put away his newspaper? Would the Taoiseach answer about the legislation?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Government has not discussed any of those issues and there is no change in the date of the budget or the finance Bill, as outlined by the Minister for Finance here on a number of occasions. What Deputy Martin is talking about is absolute fallacy.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I call Deputy Adams. Would Deputy Martin leave down his newspaper?

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is in the newspaper.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What did Deputy Martin have for his breakfast this morning? Would he allow Deputy Adams?

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I had a healthy breakfast.

Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Weetabix.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Maybe he should go out and get breakfast then if he did not have breakfast.

Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Seo ceist faoi reachtaíocht atá fógraithe. I want to ask for an update on the progress of the health (Amendment) Bill to provide for free GP services. When will this Bill be published and when will it be debated here, and will the Government provide free GP care for claimants under the long-term illness scheme before the end of the year? What is the reason for the delay in bringing forward this legislation?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is merely the pressure of the line of legislation. The GP services Bill is scheduled to be published this session and Deputy Adams will have the opportunity to raise any issues he wants when it is published.

Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What progress has been made on the solas Bill?

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We are all in the dark.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That will be published this session as well.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The lights have gone out.

Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

When will the housing Bill be published? Would the Taoiseach agree that the social housing programme has pretty much collapsed, in particular, over the past number of months?

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

Years.

Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Will the Government take any initiative next year to restore a reasonable programme of social housing?

When will Mr. Justice Finnegan's report on Priory Hall be published? A colleague asked about it yesterday. Priory Hall residents are deeply anxious to know what kind of resolution there will be about their homes.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I can confirm that the Minister of State, Deputy Jan O'Sullivan, is working hard on the housing Bill. It will be next year before it comes in.

Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Today marks World Homeless Day and the Irish homeless football team is in the third round of the Homeless World Cup.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Hold on a second, for goodness sake.

Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am just coming to the question. They are playing Scotland today and I am sure we wish them all the best.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We all wish them well. Now, would Deputy Ellis ask about promised legislation?

Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am coming to that. There is a serious issue over homelessness. There are nearly 5,000 homeless on the list and there are 100,000 on the housing list. When will the housing Bill be brought before this House?

Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Taoiseach just said it.

Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I heard him saying that. I intended to ask that. Also, in the meantime, if it is not coming soon, can we have a debate on the issue of homelessness and housing because it is such an important issue?

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is Private Members' time.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is Private Members' time. Deputy Ellis will be able to raise that in the general economic debate which will take place shortly.

Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

When will the Legal Services Regulation Bill 2011 be back before the House? When will the Personal Insolvency Bill 2012 come to Report Stage?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Legal Services Regulation Bill 2011 is due back in on 5 November. I hope that that date can be adhered to. If not, we will let Deputy Mac Lochlainn know.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I call Deputy Higgins.

Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What of the Personal Insolvency Bill 2012?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is being worked on. I think it is due back from committee fairly soon. I hope it will be completed here before the end of the term.

Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

When will there be a statement in the Dáil on the location and time cale for the children's hospital? Has the Cabinet signed off on that?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Cabinet has not signed off on it. I can confirm that the Minister for Health has reviewed the Dolphin report-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is a matter for a parliamentary question.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

-----and the Department has carried out its assessments.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Are there new criteria?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I would expect the Government to make a decision on that within the next two weeks.

Joan Collins (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There have been reports in the media that the advisory group on the ABC case has completed its report. Has the Cabinet seen that and when will the Government bring it to the Chamber?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It certainly has not been presented to the Minister. I am not aware that it has been completed. Obviously, we will wait until it is presented to the Minister for Health to see what it contains.

Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Taoiseach will be aware, the mortgage crisis faced by approximately 160,000 households in this country is one of the most pressing issues facing this country. In the context of the Personal Insolvency Bill coming back for its final Stages, will the Taoiseach release the information that Mr. Simon Carswell of The Irish Times indicated the Government was refusing to give out-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is not relevant to the Order of Business.

Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

-----about banks lobbying the Government-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Would Deputy Boyd Barrett resume his seat?

Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

-----on the Personal Insolvency Bill before we discuss the final Stages?

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Would Deputy Boyd Barrett please respect the Chair and resume his seat? I ask the Taoiseach not to answer somebody who is totally out of order. Deputy Boyd Barrett should respect the Chair. When I stand up, the Deputy is supposed to sit down. He is totally out of order.

Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I was only asking for information on property legislation being discussed.

Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Workers and Unemployed Action Group)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Government is proposing to introduce unfair and anti-family water taxes. Recent reports suggest that as many as one third of connections cannot be metered and will be the subject of a flat tax. Similar reports, or maybe the same reports-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We are talking not about reports, but about promised legislation.

Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Workers and Unemployed Action Group)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am getting to it.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Please get on. I have a list of Deputies waiting to speak.

Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Workers and Unemployed Action Group)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Some of the reports suggest that Bord Gáis will not be able to meter these connections before 2014.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is not a matter for the Order of Business.

Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Workers and Unemployed Action Group)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am asking the Taoiseach when will we see the water services Bill so that we can clarify these reports.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Deputy Healy will see that Bill this session.

Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In July, the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Varadkar, announced that he would provide an additional €36 million to the CIE group of companies to assist in the protection and retention of services. Today we understand that he has changed his mind on that.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We understand what?

Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

If I could get to it, today we discovered that he has changed his mind on that. He is now suggesting that they sell assets or that they borrow money.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We are not dealing with debates.

Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is effectively selling the bus to pay for diesel. There is, on the schedule, the transport (CIE borrowings) Bill. When does the Minister intend to bring that before the House?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The transport (CIE borrowings) Bill is down for publication this session.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I can confirm for Deputy Butler that the proceeds of crime Bill is the subject of discussions with CAB. It will be next year before the Bill is published.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I hope I am in order this morning.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I hope the Deputy is.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I want to ask the Taoiseach, under the Animal Health and Welfare Bill 2012, about the serious erosion taking place here in the proposed legislation in relation to the Veterinary Association of Ireland. Its members have given good service to the community and farming practices and they are being undermined here.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

To which legislation does Deputy Mattie McGrath speak?

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Animal Health and Welfare Bill 2012.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy. What of the Animal Health and Welfare Bill?

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is a serious diminution of their situation.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is no need to expand.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There will be more quangos and more lay-people, animal rights activists and others, interfering here whereas the veterinarians are qualified and have given good service.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Bill is expected to go to the Select Sub-Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine next week.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

By the way, Deputy Mattie McGrath is entitled to attend that committee.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I know that. I was there this morning.

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

On a matter that another Member and I have raised on many occasions-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

If somebody else has raised it, there is no point in Deputy Durkan raising it a second time because he will get the same answer.

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

The important part there is I have a unique way for raising this question.

Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is a given.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I know Deputy Durkan has, very unique.

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

It relates to organised crime, which I have raised on many occasions when I was sitting over there, as the Ceann Comhairle will recall because he supported me in that.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Deputy Durkan should have a chat with Deputy Butler who has already raised the matter.

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

I want to ask if it might be possible to introduce the legislation that is most likely to impact in a really negative way on organised criminal activity because the carnage continues.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What Bill?

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

The carnage continues, as it did when I was sitting over there.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What Bill is Deputy Durkan talking about?

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

There is a variety of Bills and I will not-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is only for the Taoiseach's sake.

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

Wait for a second, I do not propose to read them all out but there are many of them. They have been sitting on the Order Paper for at least five to ten years.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

This is the Order of Business. Deputy Durkan is supposed to be asking about promised legislation. Would he tell us about the Bill?

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

This is a matter for the Order of Business.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Be fair.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Promised legislation.

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

This is a matter for the Order of Business.

It is because of the negligence of the previous Administration-----

Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Deputy is only wasting time.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Will Deputy Bernard Durkan please resume his seat, co-operate with the Chair and adhere to the rules applying to the Order of Business, which require Deputies to ask when promised legislation is likely to be brought before the House?

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Just like I did. Did Deputy Bernard Durkan see what I did?

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Will Deputy Bernard Durkan please tell the Taoiseach what Bill he is talking about?

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

I will not repeat what I said.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I hope the Deputy will not.

Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He has forgotten it already.

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

The criminal records information system Bill has been promised for some time, with other similar legislation, the introduction of which is hugely important. Is it intended to expedite the processing of this legislation through the House in order that we can make a real impact on the criminality taking place?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I can confirm that the heads of the criminal records information system Bill were cleared in April, but it will be next year before the Bill is actually published.

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Regarding the proposed new housing agency, will it be funded properly in order that local authorities can purchase-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is the subject of a parliamentary question.

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

No, it comes under the housing Bill.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We do not discuss the contents of Bills on the Order of Business. We only inquire when promised legislation is likely to be introduced.

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I want to know if local authorities will be funded in order that they can buy properties currently for sale at very affordable prices.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Deputy should table a question to the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In that way, they would be able to provide housing for those on housing waiting lists.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Has a housing agency Bill been promised?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Yes; it will be introduced next year.

Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The programme for Government promised reform of local government. We have a situation where 235 staff of local authorities are being paid in excess of €100,000 and there are 203 directors-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We are not having a debate on that matter now.

Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Will the Taoiseach confirm that there will be measures in the-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

No, not on the Order of Business. What legislation is the Deputy inquiring about?

Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Before the summer recess we were promised legislation, but we still have not seen it.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Will the Deputy please resume his seat?

Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Ceann Comhairle did not ask Deputy Bernard Durkan to resume his seat.

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He did, actually.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

This is codology. Every single morning this happens. Deputies know exactly what issues they are entitled to raise on the Order of Business and I ask them please to do so. However, we do not want speeches.

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Ceann Comhairle did ask Deputy Bernard Durkan to resume his seat and the Deputy sat down.

Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He did not.

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Deputy can check the record.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am fed up having to ask Deputies to stay quiet.

Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Ceann Comhairle is very one-sided.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Deputies should stick to the rules of the House. If they do not like them, they should change them. I have to apply them.

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Deputy Niall Collins should withdraw he remark made.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Deputies can table parliamentary questions, raise Topical Issues and attend committee meeting, but they should not use the Order of Business every single morning to raise issues that they should not. I have to cut them off when they do so, even though I do not want to do so.

James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

My question is very relevant.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

No speeches, please.

Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I did not receive an answer to my question.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I do not know the legislation to which the Deputy was inquiring.

James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Given the abuses at all levels within the body politic, can the Taoiseach give us a more definite date for publication of the registration of lobbyists Bill?

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I believe it will be published next year. We will not get to it in this session.

Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Deputy James Bannon can take another chill pill in the meantime.

Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Will the Dolphin report be published in full? Can we have a debate in the Dáil on the proposed location of the new children's hospital and the detail of that report?

Primary legislation is required to abolish the 50 cent prescription charge. As the Minister has made a commitment in the matter, will the Taoiseach indicate if the required legislation will be published in the near future? The Minister made the promise in March 2011 to abolish the charge.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I will have to get back to the Deputy on the legislation to which he refers. The Dolphin report is in the hands of the Minister. When the Government makes its decision, there will be an opportunity to have a full discussion in the House. Clearly, the report can be published at that stage.

Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

First, I express my disappointment that Deputy Micheál Martin did not have a copy of the Evening Echo when he was canvassing in Rathgar last week. I am glad he was canvassing there and not in Cork-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Will the Deputy please get on with it?

Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Is Deputy Jerry Buttimer questioning the editorial content of the Evening Echo?

Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am aware of the reaction Deputy Micheál Martin received when he was canvassing in Rathgar.

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I was in Ranelagh actually.

Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

On the Irish Aviation Authority Bill, the Dublin Airport Authority has written to Cork Airport seeking redundancies. Obviously, there is huge concern in Cork regarding the airport-----

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Is the Deputy asking about an aviation Bill?

Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is important that we allay the concerns of workers and recognise that Cork Airport is a hub and a gateway to the south. When will that legislation be brought before the House?

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is a Topical Issue matter.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I can inform Deputy Jerry Buttimer that discussions and consultations on the Irish Aviation Authority Bill are ongoing. It will be next year before the Bill is published.

Peter Mathews (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I hope I will be in order, a Cheann Comhairle.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

So do I.

Peter Mathews (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am learning the rules slowly. Regarding Bills in preparation touching on the security of citizens, gangland crime, the proceeds of crime and so forth, I ask the Government to consider the possibility, if not the necessity, of providing for the visible arming of the Garda Síochána. The news today that a 16 year old boy was shot at 9 p.m. is yet another example of the problem. We are seeing it day by day. With such a move we would have manners and decorum on the streets.

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That sounds like a Topical Issue matter to me.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It does, a Cheann Comhairle. I regret the incident in which a 16 year old boy was shot and I hope he recovers fully. The changed rosters after discussions within the Garda Síochána have meant a greater level of activity and greater visibility on the streets, which I welcome. The Minister for Justice and Equality is concerned, as is the Garda Commissioner, about the ongoing level of violent crime on the streets of Dublin, in particular, and every effort will be made to deal with it effectively.

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

Will the Taoiseach confirm that the Thornhill report has been with the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government since June? Has the Minister read it yet? Has he passed it on to the Cabinet and when will it be made public?

Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is not a matter for the Order of Business but the subject of a parliamentary question.