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<title>M J Nolan - Recent appearances (From KildareStreet.com)</title>
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<dc:date>2009-04-15T16:11:20+00:00</dc:date>

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<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-03-11.452.0&amp;m=608#g526.0">
	<title>Unemployment Levels: Motion | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-03-11.452.0&amp;m=608#g526.0</link>
	<description>The fear and, in some cases, anger that is out there must be seen to be appreciated.  It is in that context that I appeal to the Government to do what it can to ensure that as many jobs as...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="526.1">The fear and, in some cases, anger that is out there must be seen to be appreciated.  It is in that context that I appeal to the Government to do what it can to ensure that as many jobs as possible are retained.  Some Irish companies are still operating profitably, while others are under threat because of the global economic crisis and the lack of domestic demand.  However, I appeal to the Minister to consider cases in which we do have jobs and contracts.</p><p pid="526.2">I became aware last week of a particular case in which Iarnród Éireann awarded a contract for upgrading of equipment in Rosslare to an Irish company which then subcontracted its work to foreign companies.  I know of two companies that tendered for that business but did not succeed as they were slightly more expensive.  However, the work is now going to foreign companies, one of which is in Finland, although I do not know where the other one is located.  While it is possible to hide behind the independence of the Government, the Departments and semi-state bodies, there should be a certain loyalty on the part of Irish bodies in view of the situation we are in and the numbers on the unemployment register and they should look more favourably on Irish companies where there is the possibility of retaining jobs.  Once people go on the live register, it will be hard to find jobs for them.  I ask the Minister of State and all Ministers to notify their Departments that, where possible, and within reason, we should keep contracts in Ireland.</p><p pid="526.3">I also ask the Minister to request that his officials use a light touch with regard to regulation of commercial organisations.  We are all aware of the difficulties being experienced in the catering trade.  The costs for companies in this area are relatively high compared to those of their European partners and the area of regulation is of concern to them.  They feel that at times they have been unduly pressurised and that they are spending time and money on book-keeping and record-keeping that would be more profitably spent increasing their business and reducing costs.</p><p pid="526.4">I also request that more resources and manpower be provided to the Department of Social and Family Affairs, whose staff are working under extraordinary pressure to cope with the number of applications for jobseeker’s benefit and allowance.  We are talking about people who have never in their working lives had to go near a social welfare office.  The role of MABS is also important.  It is doing a wonderful job, but it needs to be properly resourced and funded to deal with the urgent cases it sees on a daily basis.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2009-03-11T18:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
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<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-03-11.452.0&amp;m=608#g524.0">
	<title>Unemployment Levels: Motion | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-03-11.452.0&amp;m=608#g524.0</link>
	<description>We are living in extraordinarily difficult times and there is not a family in the country that has not been affected either by unemployment or by the threat of unemployment.  We come across this...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="524.1">We are living in extraordinarily difficult times and there is not a family in the country that has not been affected either by unemployment or by the threat of unemployment.  We come across this in our daily work as politicians.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2009-03-11T18:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-03-04.949.0&amp;m=608#g980.0">
	<title>Public Finances: Motion | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-03-04.949.0&amp;m=608#g980.0</link>
	<description>I welcome the opportunity to speak on this motion.  As my colleagues who are speaking on this side of the House have said, it is only now the scale of the problem we are facing is beginning to...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="980.1">I welcome the opportunity to speak on this motion.  As my colleagues who are speaking on this side of the House have said, it is only now the scale of the problem we are facing is beginning to hit home to those on all sides the House.  Yesterday there were very sobering announcements of the falling revenue stream and, something which could have been missed, an increase in expenditure which is unfortunate at a time when our income is reducing.  We must engage with all sides to find a solution to this problem.  Comparisons have been made with the 1980s when we experienced similar problems.  The difference is that back then we did not have the international economic downturn, which is now evident to everybody.  </p><p pid="980.2">The Government must find efficiencies in all its spending and Departments.  I am sure there are areas which can be examined and savings made. <b> </b>The mini budget later this month or early next month will affect the 1.8 million people still working.  It is important to note that almost 2 million people are working and even though our unemployment rates are high we still have a large workforce.  People who are in employment and are asked to pay even more in personal taxation and indirect taxes will look for better value for the taxes they are paying and Government spending.</p><p pid="980.3">It is important that best practice in doing business is put into place by the Government.  I know all its decisions and actions will be taken for the right reasons.  We only need to hear the news this evening of major job losses in Waterford and the blue chip accounting firm, KPMG, which announced 200 redundancies.  These individuals are well qualified in their specific areas and fields.  It brings home to us all the difficulties being encountered in the real world of the private sector.</p><p pid="980.4">The five year framework for the restoration of the public finances must be achieved.  We do not have many options in that regard and we must restore the current budget position to a balanced budget by 2013.  A lot of this is about confidence.  This Government and country must ensure there is international confidence in the way we do our business here.  We must engage with and have the confidence of our international partners and bankers, on whom we will become more and more reliant for the next two, three or four years to continue to run this economy.</p><p pid="980.5">It is also important to remember those well-qualified individuals who, through no fault of their own, have lost their jobs.  Those responsible, in whatever way, for landing us in the mess must also take responsibility for that.  Allied to the disappointing tax revenues we saw yesterday is the increased pressure on the expenditure side of Government spending, particularly in recent months when there has been a large increase in the numbers on the live register.  It has a double impact because when people are working they are contributing to the national Exchequer but when they are not working they must be paid by it.</p><p pid="980.6">The Minister and Government are working hard to try to bring this to a successful conclusion.  The important message to go out is that we need support from all sides, including the parties opposite.  I wish the Minister and Government well.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2009-03-04T19:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
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<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.611.0&amp;m=608#g645.0">
	<title>Irish Economy: Motion | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.611.0&amp;m=608#g645.0</link>
	<description>&acirc;��&acirc;��on the part of constituents.  I am surprised the urgency of the problem is not getting through to some people.  The bottom line is that revenues are falling at an inordinate rate and the...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="645.1">——on the part of constituents.  I am surprised the urgency of the problem is not getting through to some people.  The bottom line is that revenues are falling at an inordinate rate and the economy is shrinking.  Two years ago we were talking about potential growth of 4%, but now we are talking about a potential contraction of the economy of between 4% and 6%.</p><p pid="645.2">Whatever Government is in power will have to deal with this problem.  If we do not generate finance, the only options are to borrow it or cut spending, or try a combination of both.  This is what the Government is trying to do.  The challenge facing the Minister for Finance, the Taoiseach and their colleagues is significant.  They must save €2 billion or cut spending by that amount this year and save or cut a further €4 billion next year.  If we think our problems as public representatives are difficult this year, I fear for the situation next year.  Hopefully, we will see an improvement in the world economy and will, to an extent, benefit from that upturn.</p><p pid="645.3">The sheer speed of the economic downturn has caught everybody, not just here but internationally, by surprise.  Ireland, as such an open economy, is doubly exposed to the downturn.  The shortfall in the public finances will put significant pressure on all Ministers with regard to their spending budgets.</p><p pid="645.4">I agree with some previous speakers that this debate should not go down the road of public versus private sector workers.  This attitude is being generated in certain media quarters, but cultivation of it would be unfortunate because it divides workers and families.  The majority of individual workers are concerned and serious about trying to find a resolution to the problem.</p><p pid="645.5">What we see in the financial and banking sector is a cause of concern for people.  The case is made that over the past 15 years banks have operated a cosy cartel for senior managers.  Much of what is coming out of late tends to suggest there were some very close relationships between individuals at a high level in banking and business in particular.</p><p pid="645.6">One area I ask the Minister and the Government to examine seriously is that of families and individuals who have run into serious debt and are having problems with their mortgage repayments.  They paid at the top of the market to buy themselves a house and now they find themselves having problems with repayments.  I encourage the Minister and the Government to ensure that the banks look leniently on all those who find themselves in this unfortunate position.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2009-02-18T19:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.611.0&amp;m=608#g643.0">
	<title>Irish Economy: Motion | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.611.0&amp;m=608#g643.0</link>
	<description>This country is facing its biggest economic challenge since the foundation of the State.  As the days and weeks pass, we see the challenge increase.  I am glad to have the opportunity to speak on...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="643.1">This country is facing its biggest economic challenge since the foundation of the State.  As the days and weeks pass, we see the challenge increase.  I am glad to have the opportunity to speak on this motion as it is important to put on the record the extent of the problems facing us.  Every Deputy and public representative back in his or her constituency at the weekend got first-hand contact with constituents who made them aware of the problems they face.  In 20 years I have not seen such genuine upset and urgency——</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2009-02-18T19:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-04.663.0&amp;m=608#g719.0">
	<title>Energy Prices: Motion (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-04.663.0&amp;m=608#g719.0</link>
	<description>I welcome the opportunity to speak on this Private Members&acirc;�� motion.  It is extraordinary to think that a little over seven months ago we were speaking in the House and wondering what we were...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="719.1">I welcome the opportunity to speak on this Private Members’ motion.  It is extraordinary to think that a little over seven months ago we were speaking in the House and wondering what we were going to do as the price of oil reached $147 per barrel.  It is now hovering at around $40 per barrel.  The public is not seeing energy cost savings as a consequence of that fall in oil prices.  Even though the ESB is doing a fine job, we must see more interaction between electricity prices for consumers and the cost of the oil and gas the ESB uses.  </p><p pid="719.2">Representatives of EirGrid recently appeared before the Joint Committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.  They are professional and forward thinking in their work to ensure security of supply for electricity consumers.  If we are to continue to attract foreign direct investment, such potential investors need to be assured that they are dealing with professionals when it comes to electricity supply.  That is important in order to continue to attract companies such as Intel, which are heavily dependent on a good supply of electricity from the ESB.  If our economic recovery is to be addressed, we must have a competitive pricing structure for our energy costs.  I am pleased to note the message from the ESB is that, as the Minister announced yesterday, there will be a significant decrease in electricity costs.</p><p pid="719.3">The ESB is examining the future of power generation in what is now a one-island electricity market.  The current negotiations with planners and interested groups concerning a new interconnector with Northern Ireland are important.  EirGrid will shortly be awarding contracts for a new east-west interconnector for us to link into the UK supply grid.  We are currently producing just about the amount of electricity needed to meet demand, but hopefully in future electricity will become an import-export business.  In that way, when demand is excessive here, we will be able to import electricity from Northern Ireland or Britain and <i>vice versa</i>.</p><p pid="719.4">Competition in the electricity market is important and I am pleased to note that new players are coming onto the scene here.  Endesa has announced that it is investing €800 million in order to enter the Irish market.  In addition, Bord Gáis, in conjunction with the ESB, is opening a new generating station in Cork.</p><p pid="719.5">The increase in the contribution of renewables is critically important and to this end the ESB is examining the area of wind power.  I would like to see that sector being expanded.  The company has good targets for wind power by 2020 and I wish it success in achieving them.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2009-02-04T19:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-11-19.401.0&amp;m=608#g408.0">
	<title>Gas (Amendment) Bill 2008: Second Stage (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-11-19.401.0&amp;m=608#g408.0</link>
	<description>I welcome the opportunity to speak on the Bill.  Deputy Jan O&acirc;��Sullivan is in the Chair.  If some of the energy that was clearly on show in Thomond Park last night in her home city could be...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="408.1">I welcome the opportunity to speak on the Bill.  Deputy Jan O’Sullivan is in the Chair.  If some of the energy that was clearly on show in Thomond Park last night in her home city could be tapped into, we might not need to spend so much money on Bord Gáis.  The Bill is timely and it is important from Bord Gáis’s point of view that it pass all Stages in both Houses of the Oireachtas before the end of the year because it has an ambitious programme of investment over the next five to six years.  The Bill will increase the statutory borrowing limit for Bord Gáis Éireann from its existing €1.7 billion to €3 billion.  I am glad it does not simply give a <i>carte blanche</i> to BGE.  The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources in consultation with the Minister for Finance will have a serious input into any of the expenditure BGE will embark on.  When the Bill passes all Stages it will have the ability to access funds to deliver on its strategic plan to 2012 and beyond.</p><p pid="408.2">As we all know Bord Gáis Éireann was established in 1976 and was given a mandate at that stage to develop and maintain a system of supply for natural gas that was both economic and efficient.  Given that it was established at the time of the Kinsale gas field find, I was disappointed recently to read a report that only 9% of the gas supplied to domestic customers now comes from Irish gas fields.  It is all the more important that we should continue to explore for new gas sources off the west and south coasts in particular.  A recent seismic study of our coastline conducted by the Geological Survey of Ireland has indicated that geologically Ireland has the possibility of holding major deepwater reserves of oil and gas, which is encouraging.  This is particularly so for blocks off the west coast adjacent to the current find in Shell’s Corrib gas field.  The study states that the south coast has proven reserves of both oil and gas in the Helvic and the Seven Heads fields.  It is good to know those reserves are there.  The problem of tapping into them in such deep water will prove difficult for the gas and oil exploration companies.</p><p pid="408.3">Representatives of the gas and oil exploration companies recently made a presentation to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.  It was very clear that the cost of exploring for gas off our coasts can in some cases be prohibitive.  In today’s debate some Members suggested that as a sovereign State we are giving too much away to oil and gas exploration companies when they find gas.  It is important to remember that when they were exploring for oil and gas in the North Sea, their expectation was that for every three drillings made, they would hit oil in one.  The experience in Ireland over the past 20 years has been one hit in 40 or 50 drillings, which would seriously discourage any international oil exploration company from taking a chance on drilling off the Irish coast.</p><p pid="408.4">Based on the report from which I have just quoted, reserves do exist.  Perhaps as the oil and gas supplies internationally gradually diminish, it will become more economical for companies to consider Ireland as a place worth exploring for those gas and oil reserves.  I understand it costs approximately $400,000 to $500,000 a day to bring on these rigs to explore for oil and gas.  As time goes on perhaps more interest will be shown in developing Irish gas and oil fields and we can build on the network that has been put in place since 1976.  We now have a sophisticated network running through the country.  Some 18 counties are served by Bord Gáis.  Presumably when funding is put in place and when the time is right the other counties will be in a position to access domestic and industrial gas from Bord Gáis.</p><p pid="408.5">Carlow was one of the first towns to benefit from Bord Gáis supply.  While the gas line did not come through Carlow, because of the presence of the sugar factory in the town, which would have been a very big energy user, it was found to be economic to run a spur from the main line to service the sugar factory which was one of the biggest users of natural gas during the sugar campaign season which ran from September to January.  That spur coming into the town allowed a domestic supply network to be installed and many of the developers who were building housing estates in the town were able to put in a service for those new houses, which has proved very successful.  We have been very fortunate in being able to avail of the gas supply when it came on stream in 1976.</p><p pid="408.6">From small beginnings when the original borrowing limit for BGE was €25 million, its recent financial report showed that last year it had a turnover of, I believe, €1.2 billion, with significant profits also.  This has benefited the Government as a stakeholder.  Bord Gáis has more than 600,000 customers.  As the network expands into other counties, that customer base will clearly increase.  The Sustainable Energy Act 2002 increased the borrowing limit for BGE from €700 million to €1.7 billion, which was a vast increase at the time and catered for most of BGE’s expansion and capital investment needs.  It now finds that due to the ongoing investment required and the significant cost of capital and labour-intensive investments, that requirement must be increased to €3 billion.</p><p pid="408.7">In the past ten years the network has been transformed with the construction of a number of new pipelines.  There is one to the west, which goes from Dublin to Galway, and a spur from this goes to Limerick.  There is the South-North pipeline which provides a security of supply for Northern Ireland and a gas supply to many of the towns on the way.  The Mayo-Galway pipeline will facilitate the delivery of natural gas to a number of towns along that route, which is very helpful to many towns in Galway and Mayo.  It will also facilitate transportation of the Corrib gas to the Irish market in due course.</p><p pid="408.8">One of the issues indicated to us by a number of international companies is that the supply of a terminal in Mayo for the storage of gas may encourage other international exploration companies to come on board and consider Ireland as an area to explore.  Unlike oil, gas must be stored on land and the costs involved are significant.  Now we have one company prepared to invest in and supply the terminal, other companies may be able to avail of the facility if gas is found off the west coast.</p><p pid="408.9">In announcing its annual results Bord Gáis unveiled details of an ambitious corporate strategy for the company up to 2014.  The company published at the time the results for the year ending 31 December 2007, which showed a significant increase in profits.  Among the strategic highlights was the entrance into the residential electricity market by the company, which is good because it will provide competition in a sector which had a monopoly until now.  Both domestic and commercial customers will welcome that.</p><p pid="408.10">The strategy also highlighted the transformation of the company to a full service energy company supplying both gas and electricity.  Customers North and South will be given a real competitive choice.  The company has a €2 billion investment in existing and new business and has championed energy sustainability by investing in renewable power as part of the electricity generation portfolio.  I am glad to see it is being proactive in doing so.  It is hoped to extend the customer base to the 1 million mark, establishing Bord Gáis as the leading dual energy supplier on the island of Ireland.</p><p pid="408.11">Among the financial year highlights was group turnover, which increased by 10% to €1.215 billion, as in 2006 it was €1.1 billion.  There was growth of 29% in profits before tax to €166 million, compared to €129 million in 2006.  Gross sales increased by 8% to €763 million, compared to €710 million in 2006.  Gas transportation sales increased by 8% to €169 million, a slight increase on the 2006 figure.  Electricity sales increased by 18% to €239 million.</p><p pid="408.12">The company is set for a period of major growth and development as it establishes itself as a leading energy supplier on the island of Ireland, with plans to double its value and growth in customer base to over 1 million by 2014.  While natural gas will remain the key part of Bord Gáis Éireann’s business, the company looks forward to developing a diverse portfolio of assets within the Irish energy sector.  It is to be welcomed that it is not just a single product company.  Of the €2 billion investment earmarked to 2014, €1 billion will be set aside for investment in new business areas, which is also welcome.</p><p pid="408.13">In his statement about the corporate outlook, chief executive John Mullen indicated Bord Gáis “is confident of its prospects in the coming years and this confidence emanates from an already exceptionally strong business space and from the roll-out of the company’s ambitious corporate strategy, which will benefit shareholders and business alike”.  That is positive.</p><p pid="408.14">Indigenous gas supplies accounted for only 9% of the total gas demand during 2007, a percentage which will decrease in the absence of further landings of gas.  This is the reason it is critical for us to encourage, in whatever way we can as a country, international exploration companies in seeking new sources of gas off our coast.</p><p pid="408.15">Ireland may not be recognised as a major player in international gas and oil exploration but it is important to acknowledge we have a number of companies, some of which — like Tullow Oil — are very successful.  Despite the fact that the company is registered in London, it is seen as one of this country’s biggest successes in the oil and gas exploration industry.  It has 120 operation licences in over 22 countries.  Other companies operate across the globe in a variety of capacities in resources development and exploration.  They include Petroceltic, which is in Europe and Africa; PetroNeft, which operates in western Siberia; Dragon Oil, which has offshore fields in central Asia and petrol resources in the Middle East; AMEC in the US, Africa and Asia; and Pan Andean Resources, which operates in South America and the Gulf of Mexico.  We have an interest in the oil and gas exploration area and even to encourage them to return to explore off our coast would be helpful.</p><p pid="408.16">Bord Gáis Éireann’s requirement for an increase in the statutory borrowing limit has been brought about by the continued growth in the scale of its business, which we have seen since the establishment of the company.  It will reach its current statutory borrowing limit by 2009, which means we must have this legislation on the Statute Book for it to avail of increased limits for borrowing.  Such an increase in the borrowing limit is required to allow Bord Gáis continue to fund its capital expenditure programme over the next five years.  This programme includes the ongoing expansion of its core gas business as it develops as a major energy company.</p><p pid="408.17">It is essential the Bill is passed by the Houses before they go into recess for Christmas and Bord Gáis Éireann’s strategy is to develop as a dual fuel provider in the energy market, bringing about competition in both gas and the electricity sectors.  It contributes to security of supply in both and makes a significant contribution to environmental sustainability through investment in renewable and alternative energy projects.  It has proven its commitments in that regard, which is welcome.</p><p pid="408.18">An increase in the statutory borrowing limit does not give <i>carte blanche </i> to Bord Gáis Éireann to borrow to that limit.  The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, in consultation with the Minister for Finance, will have a significant input into what it spends the money on and when it does so.  The proposed increase being debated in Bord Gáis Éireann’s borrowing limit is in line with similar broad increases for other State energy companies.</p><p pid="408.19">The last amendment to Bord Gáis Éireann’s statutory borrowing was in 2002 when it was increased from €700 million to €1.7 billion.  Since then, a number of projects have been completed by Bord Gáis.  The construction of a second gas interconnector to secure the supply of natural gas was completed in 2003 at a cost of €300 million.  A ring main pipeline from Dublin to Galway to Limerick was completed in 2003 also, at a cost of €400 million.  The north west pipeline from Belfast to Derry was completed to serve the ESB-owned power plant located there, which facilitated the later development of a gas distribution network to five towns along the pipeline route.  That was completed in the following year, 2004, at a cost of €100 million.  These projects demonstrate that Bord Gáis has been proactive in developing its business.  I am happy to support the Bill.  I hope the success we have seen with Bord Gáis in recent years will continue.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-11-19T16:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-11-05.701.0&amp;m=608#g740.0">
	<title>Training Programmes: Motion (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-11-05.701.0&amp;m=608#g740.0</link>
	<description>We are all too painfully aware of the international downturn and the effect it is having on our economy.  That is also reflected in the figures published today in respect of unemployment levels....</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="740.1">We are all too painfully aware of the international downturn and the effect it is having on our economy.  That is also reflected in the figures published today in respect of unemployment levels.  I am particularly concerned about the large number of male employees who have lost their jobs and continue to do so.  I wish the Minister every success in her programme for next year, which probably must continue into the following year.  This tries to help the group she identified, the 18 to 25 year age group who have found themselves without jobs.</p><p pid="740.2">We must acknowledge the economic challenges that currently face the Government.  It is to be welcomed that measures have been taken such as bringing forward the budget by six weeks and increasing the budget for Departments and areas within Departments in order to assist those who have found themselves on the unemployment register.</p><p pid="740.3">There will be much focus on the role of FÁS from now on in a way there has not been in the past number of years when we saw significant growth.  The agency will find itself the focus of much attention because of the downturn in the economy.  Continued provision of a range of training opportunities available to those who lose their jobs in the construction sector is one area that must be tackled.  I was pleased to hear the Minister of State, Deputy Billy Kelleher, bring attention to this and include such measures as the offering of a range of specific skills to workers and individual career paths to be developed for redundant workers.  In addition, attention must be given to retraining and up-skilling those workers.</p><p pid="740.4">There are still many opportunities out there for workers who find themselves unemployed.  The provision of retraining opportunites for construction workers in respect of energy efficiency is one area on which I was glad to hear the Minister of State focus.  As night follows day we will see an improvement in the world economy and, one hopes, in the Irish economy within the short term.  If at that stage we have a re-skilled and up-skilled work force available to take the opportunities this will benefit not only the workers and their families but also the country.</p><p pid="740.5">I wish to refer to one area, namely, community enterprise schemes.  These have been a great help to individuals who have been on long-term unemployment benefit or assistance and who are doing significant good work in assisting communities, particularly rural communities, in carrying out work which local authorities were not in a position to do.  I am glad that the budget for this has been increased and that this work will continue.  With rising unemployment levels we should use the opportunity. We should not allow unemployed people walk the streets, particularly young unemployed people.  In the 1980s young people who did not emigrate fell into an unhealthy routine of walking the streets, whereas those who took advantage of the education system were in a position to find good employment opportunities when the upturn took place.  I encourage the Minister to continue with this approach.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-11-05T18:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-11-04.404.0&amp;m=608#g412.0">
	<title>Cluster Munitions and Anti-Personnel Mines Bill 2008: Second Stage. | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-11-04.404.0&amp;m=608#g412.0</link>
	<description>I commend the Minister on bringing forward this legislation, which must be passed so we can be party to the convention that will be ratified and signed in Oslo on 3 December.  I welcome the...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="412.1">I commend the Minister on bringing forward this legislation, which must be passed so we can be party to the convention that will be ratified and signed in Oslo on 3 December.  I welcome the cross-party support for it and the work done by this Minister, the Department and the Government.</p><p pid="412.2">Cluster munitions have inflicted unacceptable harm on civilian populations and many countries have seen the deadly legacy from cluster submunitions failing to detonate.  We have all seen images on television of young children in particular who have been affected by these deadly munitions.</p><p pid="412.3">Civilians are killed and injured by cluster bombs exploding years after their use in war; people are still being killed and maimed by such ordnance.  Tragic loss of life and terrible injuries from this are evident across the world and our televisions bring home to us these particularly terrible injuries.  Unexploded cluster munitions also present a significant obstacle to post-conflict communities seeking to rebuild their lives.  Economic reconstruction and social recovery cannot take place until explosive ordnance is cleared and destroyed.</p><p pid="412.4">Such a task of clearance is a daunting challenge.  I saw at first hand the work of the Irish Defence Forces in this regard when I visited the Lebanon.  Those personnel are to be commended on their technical and professional skills in clearing areas of unexploded ordnance.</p><p pid="412.5">It is time for us to deal with the cause of the problem as the legacy of unexploded cluster munitions endangers civilian lives in the same way as landmines, and the problem must be dealt with similarly.  The Irish Defence Forces have a clear international reputation in the work it does in this regard.  However, we continually see First World countries developing and specialising in the production of these bombs.  It is unfortunate we cannot do more in that regard but this is a step in the right direction, for which I commend the Minister.</p><p pid="412.6">On 30 May this year, 107 states participated in the Dublin conference on cluster munitions and agreed to adopt the text of a new convention.  By doing so, the participating states fulfilled the commitment made in the Oslo declaration in February 2007 to conclude by 2008 a legally binding international instrument prohibiting the use and stockpiling of cluster munitions that caused unacceptable harm to civilians, secure adequate provision of care and rehabilitation to survivors and clearance of contaminated areas.</p><p pid="412.7">The conference was well attended and I heard the Minister, in his opening remarks, speak about countries such as South Africa and Japan, which were not at the forefront but participated in the conference.  The Department of Foreign Affairs took a very active and hands-on role in the process, for which it should be commended.</p><p pid="412.8">The new convention will be opened for signature at a signing conference in Oslo on 3 December.  All states wishing to join may attend this ceremony and I am glad to hear Ireland will be there to sign up on that date.  Those which do not sign up on 3 December in Oslo can do so at a later stage at the United Nations headquarters in New York.  The new convention prohibits all use, stockpiling, production and transfer of cluster munitions.  Separate articles in the convention concern assistance to victims, clearance of contaminated areas and the destruction of stockpiles.</p><p pid="412.9">This legislation will confirm this country’s support for all efforts this year to conclude the international instrument prohibiting cluster munitions that cause unacceptable harm to civilians.  We need a legally binding international instrument that prohibits the use, development, production, stockpiling and transfer of cluster munitions that cause unacceptable harm to civilians.  The destruction of current stockpiles is also required, and I am led to believe tens of thousands of tonnes of those munitions are stockpiled in various countries.  The instrument also provides for clearance, risk reduction and other risk mitigation activities, as well as actions for victim assistance, co-operation, compliance and transparency measures.</p><p pid="412.10">Over the past 50 years the use of cluster munitions has shown us the devastating and horrendous impact of such weapons.  Human rights, humanitarian and development impacts of cluster munitions are still present today.</p><p pid="412.11">The events in 2006 reminded one of this tragedy, when Israel deployed thousands of tonnes of cluster munitions in Lebanon.  Such munitions will still be present in 20, 30 and 40 years’ time.  The unfortunate point is that children in particular tend to be the victims of such unexploded ordnance.  Children, by their nature, are inquisitive and will play in areas that less physically nimble adults are unable to access.  Moreover, their inquisitive nature means that when children see something, they pick it up with unfortunate results.  A case from Laos was reported in the newspaper recently, in which 14 children came across an unexploded bomb.  I believe four were killed and the rest were badly injured.</p><p pid="412.12">The effects on children have been recorded and the United Nations is doing much work in this respect.  For example, two thirds of cluster munitions casualties in Kosovo were 19 years of age or younger.  The average age of casualties in Afghanistan was between seven and 14.  In Vietnam, which was littered with cluster munitions for more than 30 years, data on recent casualties also show a scary story in which children made up 62% of cluster munitions casualties, compared to 49% of landmine and other ordnance casualties.</p><p pid="412.13">The need for risk reduction education and for the rights of all survivors to medical care, rehabilitation services, psychological support and social and economic inclusion must be recognised.  For children, this means making schools accessible, training teachers to work with children with disabilities and ensuring the support provided is lifelong.  It also means being attentive to the social, economic and psychological needs of children when their parents fall victim to cluster munitions.  The commitment by states, civil society and international organisations to make progress in disarmament, arms control and non-proliferation, through new and creative forms of diplomacy, is growing.  Many states and millions of people globally recognise that our prospects for a peaceful and prosperous future are, to a large extent, dependent on our ability to prohibit or control the development, use, stockpiling and transfer of nuclear, biological, chemical and conventional weapons.</p><p pid="412.14">Recently, the UN Secretary General stated he was deeply troubled by the lack of progress on global disarmament and all Members would agree.  He called on member states of the UN to improve global security by breaking the stalemate on disarmament that threatens other key objectives of the UN charter.  A treaty prohibiting cluster munitions is among the initiatives that will result in greater global security.  The convention also should address the key concerns of the inherent inaccuracy and frequent malfunctioning of cluster munitions, which makes them particularly indiscriminate, both at the time of their use and long after the conflict has ended.</p><p pid="412.15">I commend the Minister and wish this legislation a speedy passage in order that Ireland will be able to be a signatory to the convention in Oslo on 3 December.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-11-04T18:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-11-04.404.0&amp;m=608#g410.0">
	<title>Cluster Munitions and Anti-Personnel Mines Bill 2008: Second Stage. | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-11-04.404.0&amp;m=608#g410.0</link>
	<description>I wish to share time with Deputy Fahey.</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="410.1">I wish to share time with Deputy Fahey.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-11-04T18:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-23.362.0&amp;m=608#g391.0">
	<title>Financial Resolution No. 15: (General) (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-23.362.0&amp;m=608#g391.0</link>
	<description>I wish to share time with Deputy Fahey. I am pleased to speak in this budget debate.  It is an opportunity for us all to have our say on what is going on in our economy and our country.  Recent...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="391.1">I wish to share time with Deputy Fahey.</p><p pid="391.2">I am pleased to speak in this budget debate.  It is an opportunity for us all to have our say on what is going on in our economy and our country.  Recent days have been overshadowed by the issue of medical cards for the over 70s.  The matter has been resolved and some clarity has come into the debate.  I was concerned from the outset that the news was that all over 70s would lose their medical cards, which clearly was not the case.  I am glad the Ministers and the Taoiseach have amended that and brought forward a scheme that is more acceptable to the over 70s.</p><p pid="391.3">When speaking to over 70s in my clinics, on the telephone and in e-mails, the majority of them were of the view that all those over 70 years would lose their medical cards.  There was much confusion which, to a large extent, was fuelled by vested interests who wanted to ensure there was uproar among a certain section of the community in regard to a budget proposal, and they succeeded in that.  That debate has taken place and we now have clarity.  I am glad 95% of over 70s will receive medical cards.  Those who do not receive them will, by and large, be more than capable of paying for general practitioner visits.</p><p pid="391.4">We should now focus our attention on the scale of the economic challenge facing us and which is only becoming clear.  I encourage the Government to outline at every possible opportunity the serious financial and economic situation in which this country finds itself.  We are not unique in this regard.  There is a serious global downturn of which we are part.  We are fortunate in so far as we are part of the European monetary union and, to a large extent, some of the impact of that downturn is being felt by fellow members of the EMU.  We have been cushioned somewhat by that.</p><p pid="391.5">If the economic downturn stops next year or, indeed, the year after, we will be very fortunate.  Some commentators have said this economic downturn could go on for four years.  It will result in serious difficulties for every sector of Irish society.</p><p pid="391.6">For the past two years, we have seen the impact that has had on our construction industry with the serious slowdown in that area.  Apart from all those directly involved, there has been a knock-on effect.  We have seen job losses in the legal area and among the professions such as architects, engineers, quantity surveyors and estate agents.  My local newspapers have seen a huge shortfall in advertising revenue.  We have been told this will continue until the number of housing units and apartments currently surplus to requirement — we have been told there are roughly 42,000 — are washed through the system.  We will then see the construction industry start again.  That is causing problems in the employment sector.  Many brickies, electricians and painters are looking for jobs.  For the past 15 years, it was difficult to get some of those tradesmen to do work.  Now there is pressure on them and prices are being cut.</p><p pid="391.7">We have seen non-nationals, in particular from Poland and some of the new accession states to the European Union, return home.  In a way, that is good because it lessens the impact of this slowdown on the Irish workforce.</p><p pid="391.8">However, in dealing with that, there is one aspect on which I urge caution and which has been brought to my attention over the past few weeks.  People from other EU member states who come here to work are entitled to child benefit.  However, I understand there are instances where they have not notified the authorities of the fact that they have returned to their home country and they are still drawing social welfare benefits from this State.  The Minister for Social and Family Affairs and her officials will have to be mindful of this abuse of the system and put in place some scheme whereby they are notified by the home country of the return of individuals.  When people return home, the country in which they have previously worked should be notified of that fact.  Any social welfare payments should cease and revert to the host country.  I was recently made aware of a case where individuals claiming what was disability benefit have returned to their home country but continue to send certification to the Department to claim this benefit.  We must look at these issues.</p><p pid="391.9">I would like to see some changes in the planning process.  I can only speak for my constituency but I know of a number of individuals who seem to make a career out of objecting to planning applications and are available to negotiate a solution to the problem with the applicant.  That is grossly unfair and uncalled for.  Now that we are in a slowdown, perhaps it is an issue which the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government might consider.</p><p pid="391.10">I refer to redundancies and job losses.  Perhaps it is time for the question of the public sector versus the private sector to be examined.  The private sector is the production sector which generates the revenue for the Government to function and which is being most severely hit.  The Government is putting in place a redundancy programme for sections of the HSE.  Perhaps this redundancy programme should be extended to other areas of the public sector where over-manning is evident.  It would be easy enough for Ministers and their officials to identify over-manning.</p><p pid="391.11">Most of the functions of the health service have been given to the HSE but there are still more than 500 employees in the Department of Health and Children in Hawkins House.  I am not picking on the Department of Health and Children; I am sure there are other examples of that in the public service which could be examined.</p><p pid="391.12">Previously, I spoke about and commended the Government on acting so swiftly, effectively and efficiently when the banking sector was under serious threat.  The Government action then has been recognised and acclaimed internationally.  At a time when the banks are being hammered by many commentators, it is important to acknowledge the role a strong banking and financial sector has in a strong economy.  If we lose the support of our financial sector, we will not attract inward investment.  We have been singularly successful in attracting that investment over the past 20 or 30 years and must continue to do so.  In order to do that, we need a strong, robust and healthy financial sector.  I urge the Government to keep this in mind.</p><p pid="391.13">Now there is a slowdown in the economy, it is time to look again at the service sector for job creation.  Tourism has been the poor relation, with regard to commitments from Government, over the past number of years because of the strength of other sectors of our economy, but it is an area that should be given more support.  This need not be financial support.  We must remember that sectors such as tourism could generate wealth and these should be given more consideration while we go through this difficult period.</p><p pid="391.14">We must maintain our competitive position in the global marketplace.  It will be necessary to become more competitive to attract jobs from overseas.  This is particularly apparent when we hear the statements of the campaigning candidates in the US presidential election.  They are clearly under pressure from domestic voters in terms of jobs America is haemorrhaging overseas. This is an area the candidates have highlighted and we must be mindful of it because of the significant number of individuals employed by overseas companies here.</p><p pid="391.15">We must retain our low personal taxation rates.  I am pleased the Minister did not take the easy option and increase PAYE tax rates in the recent budget.  If we do not have a competitive personal tax rate, we will lose jobs overseas.  Our corporation tax rate has been part of the reason companies have located here.  While we saw a small increase of 0.5% in VAT rates, we can live with that.</p><p pid="391.16">We have a well educated young workforce, but we need to continue to invest in education.  Everybody on this side of the House will come under pressure from schools which have seen their budgets cut, which will manifest itself in the loss of teaching jobs.  However, we must keep our eye on that area to ensure we do not lose what has been one of our greatest advantages for the promotion of jobs.  I think in particular of our third level institutes and our good university structure.  These institutes have been told by the Minister for Finance that savings must be identified in the sector and they must get their houses in order.</p><p pid="391.17">We have a very good third level institute of technology structure also.  I understand there are proposals with the Department and the Minister with regard to regularising, bringing together and making savings in that sector.  One of the suggestions mooted is amalgamation.  I suggest the directors of those institutes should get together and come up with positive and meaningful proposals that would not cost the State anything more than the current budgets.  If they did this, we might see changes made that would increase their standing and the quality of the programmes and courses they offer.</p><p pid="391.18">As a result of what we have seen over the past week, it is time for us to change our focus.  We must focus on the challenges that face us as a country, a nation and a people and the challenges that face our particular economy.  As we face even more difficult times next year, we must position ourselves to deal with those challenges.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-10-23T12:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-22.810.0&amp;m=608#g963.0">
	<title>Medical Cards: Motion (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-22.810.0&amp;m=608#g963.0</link>
	<description>We cannot isolate ourselves from what is going on globally.  Let us get that straight.  Those opposite are going to have to recognise that as much as we are. Funding should be put into primary...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="963.1">We cannot isolate ourselves from what is going on globally.  Let us get that straight.  Those opposite are going to have to recognise that as much as we are.</p><p pid="963.2">Funding should be put into primary care where we are getting best value for it.  If the Minister can negotiate, agree and approve the proposal next week whereby one fee will be charged for all medical cards, irrespective of the age of the holder, we will be going a long way towards ensuring we have a better health service.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-10-22T19:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-22.810.0&amp;m=608#g961.0">
	<title>Medical Cards: Motion (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-22.810.0&amp;m=608#g961.0</link>
	<description>I am not one bit shocked.  As I said at the outset, I have no problem supporting this.  The Government recognises its mistake and has now come forward with new proposals. The problems we are...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="961.1">I am not one bit shocked.  As I said at the outset, I have no problem supporting this.  The Government recognises its mistake and has now come forward with new proposals.</p><p pid="961.2">The problems we are experiencing are not of our own making.  There is an international global financial crisis for which we are not responsible.  It is partly due to irresponsible lending by banks in the UK.  We are in a recession and whether one likes it or not, we will have to make far more difficult decisions in the coming years.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-10-22T19:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-22.810.0&amp;m=608#g957.0">
	<title>Medical Cards: Motion (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-22.810.0&amp;m=608#g957.0</link>
	<description>I welcome the opportunity to speak on this motion and I want to put it on record that I will vote with the Government.  This has been a difficult time, not just for politicians.  It has been a...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="957.1">I welcome the opportunity to speak on this motion and I want to put it on record that I will vote with the Government.  This has been a difficult time, not just for politicians.  It has been a particularly difficult time for the pensioners and their families.  I am glad the Taoiseach and Government have admitted they made a mistake.  They have apologised and we can move on from here.</p><p pid="957.2">It is important to remember that when this scheme was introduced in 2002-03, it was costing something in the region of €20 million to €25 million.  Today it is costing €245 million.  This scheme was approved at a time of plenty.  Now that we are in far more difficult times, changes have to be made and are being made.  I think of the families receiving home help.  We were told this was one of the areas being considered by the Department and the Government for cutting.  We must recognise that it is not going to be easy and that even more difficult times lie ahead.  We will have to accept that harsh and difficult decisions will need to be taken.</p><p pid="957.3">I am glad that the Minister has asked for a report by Tuesday next and that the Government will make a decision on it at the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday.  Moneys should be put into primary care where we are getting best value for it.  I commend the Minister for accepting a mistake was made and the Government for rowing back from last week’s position.</p><p pid="957.4">It is important to recognise that 30% of Government spending is in the area of health, that we have come from a low base and that we will have to continue to increase that spending.  How much time do I have remaining?</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-10-22T19:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-17.5.0&amp;m=608#g122.0">
	<title>Approval of Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Scheme 2008: Motion | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-17.5.0&amp;m=608#g122.0</link>
	<description>I welcome the opportunity to speak on the motion.  I commend the Government on the action it took at the end of September when it was effectively compelled to do something to prevent our...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="122.1">I welcome the opportunity to speak on the motion.  I commend the Government on the action it took at the end of September when it was effectively compelled to do something to prevent our financial infrastructure from falling apart.</p><p pid="122.2">It is important to state we need a strong and healthy banking system.  Our economy will not function without a financial system in which the public has confidence.  A good system is a key element of our national economic infrastructure.</p><p pid="122.3">This debate is important in that shortcomings have been exposed in the work and practices of our banking industry.  It is important to consider the role of the Central Bank and the Financial Regulator in this regard.  If a lesson is to be learned from recent occurrences, it is that the Government, particularly the Minister for Finance, will have to adopt a more proactive and hands-on role in examining the operations of the banking system.</p><p pid="122.4">Banking stability is very important.  It is important not only that customers and shareholders have confidence in our banks, but that our international partners do so also.  In this regard, it was interesting to see the reaction of our European colleagues following the Government’s actions at the end of the September.  If there was any finger-wagging done, it had to be rescinded six days later in that the states concerned effectively took the same action themselves.</p><p pid="122.5">It is important to consider what occurred in the United Kingdom, where the Government had to invest in banks, and what occurred in Iceland, where banks actually failed.  If any lesson is to be learned, it is that our Minister and Financial Regulator must adopt a more active role in the industry. I am pleased there will be a role for the Joint Committee on Finance and the Public Service and that the Minister will report to it on a six-monthly basis so Members of the Oireachtas can have an input.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-10-17T12:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-17.5.0&amp;m=608#g120.0">
	<title>Approval of Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Scheme 2008: Motion | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-17.5.0&amp;m=608#g120.0</link>
	<description>I wish to share my time with Deputies Fahey and Michael Ahern.</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="120.1">I wish to share my time with Deputies Fahey and Michael Ahern.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-10-17T12:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-08.539.0&amp;m=608#g592.0">
	<title>Unemployment: Motion (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-08.539.0&amp;m=608#g592.0</link>
	<description>I share with Deputies on all sides of the House the concern about the extraordinary increase in the number of people signing on the live register.  We are living in unprecedented and...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="592.1">I share with Deputies on all sides of the House the concern about the extraordinary increase in the number of people signing on the live register.  We are living in unprecedented and extraordinary economic times.  There was a time when the economy changed by the week, but now it is not changing by the week nor by the day but by the hour.  The Government must recognise that and deal with the issues as they arise.  The increase in the number of those signing on the live register is indicative of what is happening not only in Ireland but in the international economy.  It may be fire-fighting to an extent, but the Government has had to deal with the economy, which has been in a downturn for some time, and with issues as they arise such as the extraordinary scenes we witnessed last week when the banking sector was on the brink of collapse and would have done so were it not for the quick and effective action of the Government in dealing with the matter on Tuesday night.  Its action is to be commended and Ministers for Finance in other countries, and the Chancellor of the Exchequer, are taking a leaf out of the Government’s book.</p><p pid="592.2">It is important to record, lest we forget, that more than 640,000 jobs were created in the past 11 years and more than 2 million people are working in this country.  I am glad the Minister for Social and Family Affairs is present in the Chamber.  She referred to the back to work and back to education allowances.  We should encourage young people, in particular, who now find themselves unemployed, having lost a job, and who wish to seek further education to take up that allowance.  One of the conditions of the back to education allowance is that the person must be unemployed and signing on for unemployment assistance for the 12 months immediately prior to claiming the allowance, but some individuals may not have been entitled to unemployment for one reason or other, perhaps based on their parents’ income.  I ask that changes be introduced to allow those individuals to avail of this scheme because it is worthwhile.  Education was the cornerstone of our economic recovery in the past 20 years and anything the Minister can do, other than pay out social welfare, to encourage people back into the education system is to be welcomed.</p><p pid="592.3">Another issue to which I wish to refer is that of energy efficiency and the impact that the increasingly high cost of fuel is having on social welfare recipients, particularly those who are senior citizens.  In recent years, Government policy has focused on increasing primary social welfare rates in order to ensure that those on benefit payments can meet their heating and basic living costs throughout the year.  There has been a dramatic rise in the cost of fuel and heating oil during the past months.  In recent days, the price of oil has decreased but it is still significantly higher than it was 12 months ago.</p><p pid="592.4">The Department of Social and Family Affairs also pays dedicated allowances that are specifically designed to supplement other payments.  These include the electricity or gas allowance, paid as part of the household benefits package, and the fuel allowance scheme and are aimed at mitigating the impact of high energy costs.  I accept that times are difficult but I encourage the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, in the context of next week’s budget, to fight her corner and ensure that those on the margins of society are well catered for.  People are uncertain with regard to what they are facing into this winter and they deserve the protection and guardianship of the Government and the Minister in particular.</p><p pid="592.5">The Government will have a difficult job in addressing the problems we face.  It is acting effectively, efficiently and in a timely manner on the domestic scene.  Unfortunately, however, Ireland’s is a small, open economy and it is, to a large extent, dependent on what happens overseas.  Much of what occurs is outside our control.  While we have systems and regulations in place in respect of domestic matters, we have no control over what is happening in the United States, which seems to be the source of all the problems that have been experienced to date.  I hope someone will, following the presidential election next month, take control of the US and that there will be light at the end of the tunnel, hopefully by spring of next year.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-10-08T19:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
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<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-08.508.0&amp;m=608#g527.0">
	<title>Broadcasting Bill 2008 [Seanad]: Second Stage (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-08.508.0&amp;m=608#g527.0</link>
	<description>This legislation is timely and I commend the Minister for publishing it in May.  It has passed all Stages in the Seanad.  The Bill is detailed and comprehensive, dealing with all aspects of...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="527.1">This legislation is timely and I commend the Minister for publishing it in May.  It has passed all Stages in the Seanad.  The Bill is detailed and comprehensive, dealing with all aspects of regulation and broadcasting content in Ireland.  Technology is improving at such a rate that it is important to update legislation to take account of changes in broadcasting.  I wish to comment on a number of proposals.</p><p pid="527.2">The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland will assume the existing role of the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland.  I am glad that the Minister has taken note of the report of the Joint Committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and that it will have an input in deciding the membership of the authority.  The authority will consist of two independent statutory boards — the contracts award committee and the compliance committee.  The authority will have responsibility for the strategic direction of the organisation, as well as tasks such as preparing codes and rules for broadcasters and the running of the organisation.</p><p pid="527.3">Other Members referred to the section that allows the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland to introduce regulations on advertising, particularly with regard to food advertising aimed at children.  The inordinate increase in the problem of obesity, particularly in young teenagers, has not gone unnoticed and must be tackled.  I am glad that the Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Power, is present.  In his previous role as a Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children he had a significant input in that area.  This matter is something we should deal with because we have seen its effects on young children.  The Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Wallace, is acutely aware of the problem and supports the section dealing with the consumption of high-fat foods and their advertising at particularly sensitive times early in the afternoon when young children are watching.  The advertisements are professional and colourful, carry music and use cartoon characters.  They are certainly effective from an advertising and business point of view.  However, there are over 300,000 overweight and obese children in Ireland and the rate is rising by around 10,000 per annum.  We must deal with this matter because advertising has a significant impact on what young people eat.</p><p pid="527.4">Regarding other parts of the Bill, yesterday the Joint Committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources met the Screen Producers Association of Ireland which represents 180 members.  The delegates were fair in their comments in welcoming this legislation, of which they were supportive.  However, there are issues that they asked be addressed.  I ask the Minister to take into account their views on Committee Stage.  In particular, they mentioned that the Bill provided for a figure of €40 million per annum for RTE to spend on independent productions.  While that is welcome, taking into account that last year RTE spent €77 million on such productions, the producers are of the view that rather than have a fixed sum assigned, a percentage of RTE’s revenue should be used instead.  They proposed a figure of 35% of the station’s annual revenue.  As RTE is the dominant player in broadcasting and, therefore, the biggest customer of independent film producers, the screen producers have a case.</p><p pid="527.5">Irish people like to hear stories told by Irish people.  We have a creative vision in telling stories.  It is important, therefore, that we support those creative people who work in the independent television production sector.  The change would be for the good of licence fee payers, would benefit RTE and have a positive impact on jobs in the economy.  As we face a difficult time, it is important that we recognise and acknowledge the role the people concerned play.  Their proposal would be good value for money.  The independent sector produces 50% of top-rated prime time entertainment programmes on a highly cost efficient basis for RTE.  If RTE had to make these programmes, they would be considerably more costly.  A percentage rather than a fixed annual spend would be good for RTE, as it would recognise that the station’s commercial revenues are dependent on market conditions and that as these fall, advertising falls.  Therefore, the percentage the station would have to spend on the indpendent sector would also fall, an aspect the independent producers acknowledged.  Part of RTE’s stated vision is to nurture and reflect cultural and regional diversity and provide distinctive programming with an emphasis on home production.  The proposal would offer a way of delivering positively on this.  The current spend is €77 million, which demonstrates the licence payers’ appetite for independently produced programmes.</p><p pid="527.6">The Screen Producers Association was also concerned about rights to programmes.  The current position is that a producer of a programme buys the rights from performers, writers, musicians and packages them for sale to the broadcaster, in this case RTE.  Under current broadcasting contracts, however, RTE buys all rights in perpetuity for 100% funded programmes.  This causes problems for producers who find that RTE takes programmes, broadcasts them and pays for them.  After that, however, there is no aftersales service by RTE.  The independent producers would like to see a situation where, after a certain time, perhaps two or three years, they would be allowed to take back the rights and sell them on to other international broadcasters or as rights for DVDs.  They gave the example of “Riverdance”.  A producer retained rights and developed a stage show which generated millions for RTE and the producer.  They would like to see this expanded upon in order that a producer who makes a programme under contract for RTE can have the rights returned if after a number of years the station does not use the programme.  The producer might then exploit more revenue from the programme after that time lapse, perhaps on the basis of a 50-50 share of profits.</p><p pid="527.7">The third issue I wish to mention concerns children’s programming.  There are over 28 children’s channels available, broadcasting from the United Kingdom into Ireland on terrestrial, cable and satellite signals through different providers.  We must have a new strategic plan for such programming in Ireland.  From pre-school to the formative teenage years our children should be provided with Irish programming relevant to them that will entertain, educate, stimulate and provide a cultural awareness for them.  Irish-produced children’s programming currently represents only 9% of what is broadcast on Irish television channels.  Almost 80% of children’s programming on RTE comprises international imports, many of which are repeats.  This is an area in which there is scope to improve.  We can reinvest with Irish film producers who are keen to make such programming and who have the capacity, wherewithal and talent to do so.  We should exploit the talent available.  Much new young energetic talent is available for such programming.  I would like to see this happen.</p><p pid="527.8">The Broadcasting Bill proposes a new approach to the appointment of boards of semi-State companies.  In the case of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, there will be nine board members, five appointed by the Government after nomination by the Minister, and four by the Government after nomination by the Minister on the advice of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.  I welcome this proposal and the committee of which I am a member will actively participate in making recommendations for this panel to be considered, first, by the Minister and then by the Government.  In the case of RTE and TG4, there will be 12 board members, six appointed by the Government after nomination by the Minister and four after nomination by the Minister, again on the recommendation of the Oireachtas joint committee.  That is a positive step because it gives Members of the House from both sides an opportunity to have an input into the appointment of board members.</p><p pid="527.9">The joint committee recently visited TG4 and was very impressed by the work it does.  One of the concerns of personnel there was the lack of control in respect of television channels that beam into this country and how greater control might be exercised.  They have a particular problem in this regard.</p><p pid="527.10">Referring to the previous contribution by Deputy Ferris, I also commend TG4 on its sports programming.  It has been first class in picking up the ball and running with it in terms of Gaelic games, in particular the football club championships.  I am pleased that the GAA in its wisdom decided to spread coverage of football and hurling beyond the sole remit of RTE.  This affords a smaller television station such as TG4 an opportunity to reach out to a wider audience.  The public has accepted and embraced the channel because of what it is doing.  It is a small channel but has taken on this new challenge and with limited resources competed with the best.</p><p pid="527.11">As for soccer, a number of League of Ireland matches are televised by RTE and some other channels.  However, it is a challenge for that league to compete with what is coming in from across the water.  Perhaps it could take a leaf from what is happening in the rugby sector in which limited professionalism obtains.  However, Irish rugby teams compete on the European and Magners League stages where it has specialised in special matches and, therefore, attract an audience.  The FAI needs support and I encourage it to examine this aspect of their coverage, thereby supporting the game in Ireland, because it is important to have a young population active in sport.  As this, again, ties in with the aforementioned obesity problem, it is important to encourage young people to participate actively in sport.</p><p pid="527.12">I wish the Bill every success in its passage through the House and look forward to a lively Committee Stage debate at the Select Committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-10-08T18:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
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<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-01.489.0&amp;m=608#g557.0">
	<title>Energy Poverty: Motion | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-01.489.0&amp;m=608#g557.0</link>
	<description>I ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs to look seriously at this issue.  Figures published today indicate a year-on-year increase of 50% in the numbers on the live register.  In the...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="557.1">I ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs to look seriously at this issue.  Figures published today indicate a year-on-year increase of 50% in the numbers on the live register.  In the current economic downturn, increasing numbers are likely to fall into the net of fuel poverty.  The Department must take serious action to address this.  In the context of the upcoming budget, I ask the Minister to remember those less fortunate than ourselves.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-10-01T19:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
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<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-01.489.0&amp;m=608#g555.0">
	<title>Energy Poverty: Motion | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-01.489.0&amp;m=608#g555.0</link>
	<description>It is timely that we should debate this issue on 1 October as winter approaches.  We are all aware of instances of fuel poverty in our constituencies.  Fuel poverty occurs where a household must...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="555.1">It is timely that we should debate this issue on 1 October as winter approaches.  We are all aware of instances of fuel poverty in our constituencies.  Fuel poverty occurs where a household must spend more than 10% of its income on energy in order to maintain an acceptable level of heat throughout the home.  Those most likely to be affected include elderly couples and elderly individuals, some of whom have lost a partner and now find themselves alone in the family home.  I am aware of people who have downsized to smaller houses or apartments where maintenance and heating costs are substantially less.  People who have spent 30 or 40 years in their home and have a great sentimental attachment to it should not be obliged to move somewhere smaller because of concerns about fuel affordability.  It is incumbent on the Department of Social and Family Affairs to look after such persons in their latter years.</p><p pid="555.2">Fuel poverty arises as a result of the relationship between household income, energy efficiency and dwelling and fuel prices.  Living in cold, damp conditions has an adverse impact on health, particularly so in the case of the elderly.  The consequences of fuel poverty include social exclusion, poor health and a general feeling of helplessness.  Fuel poverty is, therefore, a social issue and must be dealt with as such.  People living in cold, damp houses as a result of fuel poverty are at increased risk of respiratory illness, increased blood pressure and stroke, worsening arthritis, accidents in the home, social isolation and impaired mental health.  Such adverse living conditions can also have a detrimental effect on children’s education and on the quality of nutrition enjoyed by householders.  There is anecdotal evidence that elderly people may do without food in order to pay fuel and electricity bills to keep their homes warm.  Fuel poverty is also associated with significant debt to fuel companies, resulting in financial exclusion for the householder.</p><p pid="555.3">I have been concerned for some time about the adequacy of existing welfare supports in addressing fuel poverty among low income householders, mainly social welfare recipients.  The primary tool used by the Department of Social and Family Affairs for assisting low income householders is the fuel allowance.  Last year, more than 300,000 householders were in receipt of this payment of €18 per week for 30 weeks of the year.  In addition to the fuel allowance, the Department of Social and Family Affairs provides several other fuel related benefit schemes, including the free electricity allowance, free natural gas allowance and free bottled gas allowances.</p><p pid="555.4">Also of assistance to low income families have been the schemes run by local authorities whereby people are assisted in improving their houses by installing new insulation, windows or doors.  Unfortunately, in the past two years in particular, local authorities, for whatever reason, have not had sufficient funding to finance these particular schemes.  In my own county of Carlow, for example, while the local authority is accepting applications for the disabled person’s grant scheme, they are not being processed because the funding is completely exhausted.  The authority will not be in a position to process the applications until early next year.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-10-01T19:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
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