<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<rdf:RDF
  xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
  xmlns:rdf="http://www.w3.org/1999/02/22-rdf-syntax-ns#"
  xmlns="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/"
  xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/">
		
<channel rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/mp/?pid=185">
<title>Mattie McGrath - Recent appearances (From KildareStreet.com)</title>
<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/mp/?pid=185</link>
<description></description>
<dc:language>en-gb</dc:language>
<dc:creator>KildareStreet.com, mprss.php script</dc:creator>
<dc:date>2009-04-15T16:11:20+00:00</dc:date>

<items>
<rdf:Seq>
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-03-24.401.0&amp;m=542#g402.6" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-03-05.140.0&amp;m=542#g152.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.566.0&amp;m=542#g588.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.566.0&amp;m=542#g586.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.566.0&amp;m=542#g584.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-11.1590.0&amp;m=542#g1591.8" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-08.508.0&amp;m=542#g528.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-01.489.0&amp;m=542#g564.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-06-26.211.0&amp;m=542#g235.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-06-18.318.0&amp;m=542#g351.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-05-14.510.0&amp;m=542#g533.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-03-12.1198.0&amp;m=542#g1204.5" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-02-28.389.0&amp;m=542#g399.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-02-13.383.0&amp;m=542#g405.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-02-13.383.0&amp;m=542#g403.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-12-11.303.0&amp;m=542#g312.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-11-29.173.0&amp;m=542#g184.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-11-29.173.0&amp;m=542#g182.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-11-21.302.0&amp;m=542#g362.0" />
<rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-10-10.429.0&amp;m=542#g439.0" />
</rdf:Seq>
</items>

</channel>

<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-03-24.401.0&amp;m=542#g402.6">
	<title>Public Order Offences. | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-03-24.401.0&amp;m=542#g402.6</link>
	<description>I thank the Ceann Comhairle for giving me the opportunity to speak about the recent vicious attacks on both tourists and residents in Tipperary town and to condemn the disgraceful behaviour of a...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="402.2">I thank the Ceann Comhairle for giving me the opportunity to speak about the recent vicious attacks on both tourists and residents in Tipperary town and to condemn the disgraceful behaviour of a small group of thugs who brought shame on themselves on St. Patrick’s Day, our national holiday.  It was with great horror and disgust that I learned of the vicious attacks that ruined the national day festivities for so many in Tipperary.  As an elected Deputy for Tipperary South which includes Tipperary town, I apologise to our American visitors and the local families who were terrorised.  The attacks which left an American tourist in a serious condition in hospital as well as other residents injured after they had chosen to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on the streets of the town were despicable.  It is a source of great regret that the town has received so much bad publicity since St. Patrick’s Day.</p><p pid="402.3">It must be stated Tipperary is a beautiful town with a great sense of community spirit which was evident when so many went out to support the St. Patrick’s Day parade in the town and so many community organisations and businesses entered floats.  The sunshine on the day was gallant and it should have been a tremendous day for all.  However, the actions of a few individuals damaged the efforts of those who had taken the time to organise the parade and festivities for everybody else.</p><p pid="402.4">I compliment the mayor of Tipperary, Tipperary Town Council and the St. Patrick’s Day committee on their hard work in organising such a splendid parade.  I was pleased to learn this morning that there was a huge Garda presence in the town area, including the emergency response unit, to address the matter.  We must now examine and address the root of the problem.  I compliment Superintendent Courtney and his team on their ongoing work in combating crime in Tipperary town but, unfortunately, gardaí cannot work alone and there cannot be a garda on every street corner.  Some 99.9% of the citizens of the town are decent and law-abiding, as are the citizens of most towns in the country, although a small few are hell-bent on making life miserable for the rest of the community.  I invite the national media to come to examine Tipperary town and try to portray some of the positive attributes of life there.</p><p pid="402.5">Far too often, we witness attacks on innocent people simply because they get in the way of some thugs on a bad day.  There is nothing in place to allow ordinary individuals to defend themselves.  Those responsible for these vicious attacks are more often than not repeat offenders who will not stop until they are behind bars or, worse, they cause somebody’s death.  They have no respect for others and absolutely no respect for law or order.  We must deal with them when apprehended.  While they are entitled to due process, to go before the courts and defend their good names, if they are found guilty and are repeat offenders, we should hit them where it hurts.  The State should stop funding those found guilty of such heinous offences.  They should be doing community service, trying to assist the communities in which they are wreaking havoc.  I call on the Ministers for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Finance and Social and Family Affairs to work together to introduce legislation to deal with those who for far too long have been terrorising ordinary law-abiding citizens.  I have witnessed at first-hand what such attacks can do to a community.  I have experienced the fear that can be caused if a person is confronted by thugs.  I know people cannot defend themselves without putting themselves at risk of being persecuted.  This is not just a problem in Tipperary town, it has also become a problem in every community throughout the country.</p><p pid="402.6">I have great experience with Community Alert, the national organisation which helps the Garda Síochána.  Tipperary was the founding location in 1937 of Muintir na Tíre, the national community development organisation which has been based in Canon Hayes House in Tipperary town since.  Today, it operates its community development programme, supporting communities and encouraging people to be proactive within their own communities.  It has operated the community alert programme since 1985 in partnership with the Garda Síochána.  Through its network of community councils, it operates many innovative programmes in local communities.  I call on the public to come out and support the community alert groups, get involved in neighbourhood watch, be supportive of the Garda Síochána and together we can tackle these thugs and get them off our streets.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2009-03-24T20:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-03-05.140.0&amp;m=542#g152.0">
	<title>Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2008: Second Stage.   | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-03-05.140.0&amp;m=542#g152.0</link>
	<description>I wish to share my time with Deputy Mary White.  I welcome the Minister of State. The Bill has many beneficial features and will likely add value to the management of local authority housing and...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="152.1">I wish to share my time with Deputy Mary White.  I welcome the Minister of State.</p><p pid="152.2">The Bill has many beneficial features and will likely add value to the management of local authority housing and provide a governance framework for the delivery of housing services by local authorities.  However, there are some gaps in how the Bill will affect the delivery of housing services on the ground.  The most pressing one is that the Bill is in essence a local authority housing Bill and it overlooks the fact that currently, housing associations are responsible for providing between one quarter and one third of new social housing each year and there are now in the region of 20,000 units of social housing being managed by this sector.</p><p pid="152.3">The sector, through the Irish Council for Social Housing, has identified that a strong legislative framework is now required to underpin the work of housing associations and it would be a shame if the opportunity to address that gap in this Bill was missed.  Voluntary housing associations are active in every county providing much-needed social housing and support services to some of the most vulnerable and deprived people.  The voluntary housing sector has a special role in providing much of the social housing for the elderly, people with disabilities and homeless people.  In addition, the impact of these schemes on local communities is immense, often ensuring smaller towns remain vibrant by providing community facilities on-site and by providing employment locally, for example, in the construction sector, in developing such new projects.</p><p pid="152.4">Housing associations are involved in serving more than 400 communities throughout the country from larger urban areas to a small rural parish and the cumulative effect of their work extends well beyond the mere provision of social housing as they provide significant social capital to local communities.</p><p pid="152.5">There are currently 718 approved housing bodies which have been granted approved status by the Minister under section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002.  The Government’s statement on housing policy, Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities, as part of its overall reform of social housing, states the intention on page 15 to, “improve governance of the voluntary and co-operative housing sector”.  There are numerous powers for the Minister regarding governance of social housing delivered by local authorities.  However, the governance of the voluntary and co-operative housing sector has been overlooked.  It is still not clear from the Bill what is the proposed governance framework for approved housing bodies in this Bill.</p><p pid="152.6">Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1992, is the relevant legislative power.  Does this provide sufficient powers to remove approved status?  Clearer instruments for the governance of approved housing bodies should be set out.  The powers dealing with approved status should be updated to reflect the size, scale and diversity of the sector with a need to update section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1992.</p><p pid="152.7">The term “approved body” should be changed to “approved housing body” to distinguish from other approved bodies approved by other Departments, as it becomes confusing and the term “approved housing bodies”, would provide greater clarity about the role and function of the organisation.</p><p pid="152.8">The basis for housing association tenancies is still not clear.  In the Bill they are part of the social housing sector but in legislation the status of tenancies originates in the private rented sector.  However, they do not come under the auspices of the PRTB.  As the status of the approved bodies’ tenancies is effectively unclear, the Bill should include powers to allow for approved housing bodies access by regulation, if required, to relevant parts of the PRTB Act or relevant housing legislation.</p><p pid="152.9">I am currently a board member of The Irish Council for Social Housing, ICSH, which is the national federation of housing associations in Ireland.  The ICSH has more than 300 affiliated member housing associations providing accommodation for families, single people, the elderly, homeless people and people with disabilities.  Housing associations which in legislation are referred to as “approved housing bodies”, are non-profit organisations formed for the purpose of relieving housing need and the provision and management of housing.  They are established by a voluntary management board to benefit the community in which they are based.<i>  </i>Approved non-profit housing bodies, housing associations and housing co-operatives, currently manage in excess of 20,000 dwellings.  In 2007 housing associations developed 1,685 units of accommodation and are estimated to have provided a similar or greater number in 2008, especially with the additional capital funding which the Minister obtained to meet commitments for Part V projects which was very much welcomed in the sector.<i>  </i>Projects undertaken by housing associations may be in response to the needs of the elderly, people with disabilities, homeless persons or families and single people on low incomes.  Some housing associations may be formed to specialise in meeting a particular housing need while others develop with broader aims.</p><p pid="152.10">The specific housing services offered will depend on the aims or concerns of the members, the needs of tenants as well as the financial and other resources available for both capital costs and ongoing management running costs.  Depending on the type of housing need to be met by the housing association, the accommodation provided may be in the form of ordinary rental houses or flats or specially designed supportive sheltered housing with on-site communal welfare facilities, group homes or hostels.  It is a very broad range.</p><p pid="152.11">Along with the ICSH, I welcome the publication of the Bill and consider it a wide-ranging piece of legislation.  I recognise that it seeks to add clarity to many aspects of the provision of social housing.  I note that improvements in the legislative framework for the reform of social housing have been sought for some time and I recognise this Bill is a step towards providing greater legal clarity.  The reform measures outlined in Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities, are reflected in the Bill to some degree but require strengthening.  While welcoming in general the publication of the Bill there are a number of aspects to which I seek to draw attention and which will need to be addressed.  These aspects include significant areas of reform which are required but have not been included in the Bill’s provisions.</p><p pid="152.12">The Bill as it stands requires amendment.  I welcome the strengthening of the role of elected members in adopting the proposed local authority housing services plan.  However, it would be useful if the same level of consultation were in place for the local authority housing action programme.  This would be essential in allowing elected members to be able to measure progress of the implementation of the targets in the housing action programme which is often part of local authorities’ housing-related strategic policy committee role.</p><p pid="152.14">It would also be essential to have consultation with the voluntary housing sector in adopting the local authority housing action programme.  In many local authority areas, housing associations in the voluntary housing sector play an increasing role in delivering commitments and targets in the housing action programme.  It is only logical that the organisations being asked to deliver would have a meaningful input. I know from my own experience with the voluntary housing sector that one of the greatest frustrations is not knowing or being denied information about the former housing action plans on social housing targets in different areas.  It is very frustrating.  In addition, the new guidelines for voluntary housing associations developing new housing projects require preliminary and detailed appraisals to be undertaken before any project can proceed and as part of this process the housing association has to show that the proposed project is in line with the commitments in the housing action plan.  This will be impossible if the information in the housing action plan or programme is not forthcoming.</p><p pid="152.15">If the voluntary housing sector is being asked to work in partnership with local authorities then access to information in the housing action programme is crucial.  The more comprehensive approach in the Bill to the future housing needs assessment process undertaken by local authorities is to be welcomed.</p><p pid="152.16">I ask the Minister of State to arrange for more regular or real time assessment of housing need as every three years in the current climate does not allow for up to date planning.  I know from my own area in south Tipperary and west Waterford there has been an increase in the demand for social housing since the last assessment in March 2008.  I ask the Minister of State that the Bill would allow for an annual assessment in this current climate.</p><p pid="152.17">Previously, there has been a greater emphasis on the physical aspects of social housing support.  Even with special needs groups, this has focused on the very important grants for older people and those with disabilities.  However, the Bill should contain a direction to local authorities to the effect that social housing also focuses on aspects such as onsite supports as well as sheltered and supported housing.</p><p pid="152.18">The provisions on anti-social behaviour are welcome in terms of providing reassurance for the vast majority of good tenants.  A strengthened Bill will achieve a better outcome and greater clarity for the Minister of State’s Department, local authorities and the voluntary housing sector as well as, importantly, for tenants and the public.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2009-03-05T15:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.566.0&amp;m=542#g588.0">
	<title>Employment Law Compliance Bill 2008: Second Stage (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.566.0&amp;m=542#g588.0</link>
	<description>While I know where the Bill&acirc;��s spirit comes from, I have a number of fundamental issues with it.  Not only is it being introduced at the worst possible time, it contradicts everything that we as...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="588.1">While I know where the Bill’s spirit comes from, I have a number of fundamental issues with it.  Not only is it being introduced at the worst possible time, it contradicts everything that we as a Government should be doing for the honest, decent and hard-working business people in this time of economic crisis.</p><p pid="588.2">I will attempt to outline just a few of my issues with the Bill and begin with the most obvious, namely, the setting up of a board called the National Employment Rights Authority, NERA, on a statutory basis.  At a time when we are attempting to reduce the number of quangos, the Bill will introduce a new one.  When we should be reducing the number of directors, we will put a new one in place.</p><p pid="588.3">In its short existence since its establishment on a non-statutory basis, NERA has earned itself a reputation for using strong, bully boy tactics, barging in on hard-working business people late in the evening and during their busiest periods, often as late as 10 p.m., and demanding to see their books in the middle of busy functions when their secretarial staff might not be available.  Often, the owner-manager is the secretary.  We need to support our small indigenous firms, not allow them to be treated like criminals by officials who do not know what it is like to run a small business while trying to make ends meet.  I know what it is like to run a small business and to work through all of the extra worries and pressures that come with it.  Many of the businesses in question are run by families.</p><p pid="588.4">The Bill will add more worries to those already struggling businesses and put an end to small businesses, entrepreneurs and any hope of job creation.  It will create 23 new criminal offences with a maximum fine not exceeding €250,000 or imprisonment for a term of up to three years.  Why would a business owner or manager in his or her right mind want to become subject to 23 new criminal offences?  As Deputies have commented, most business people and employers are honest and hard-working and abide by current legislation.  While we will always have a minority of rogue employers who exploit workers, we are using a sledgehammer to crack a nut.</p><p pid="588.5">As a Government, we should be focusing more on encouraging business owners and helping them with their struggles without punishing them and putting them under unnecessary extra burdens.  We need our business people to focus not only on surviving, but on becoming more competitive instead of worrying about paying their employees untenable wages on a Sunday to satisfy an employment regulation order.  Regarding the order, I compliment the Minister of State on his efforts in negotiating with many people and on his work in trying to level the playing field between Dublin and the rest of the country.</p><p pid="588.6">We all acknowledge employees’ rights and the need for legislation in this area, but that legislation is already in place under the provisions of a number of different Acts and has served the State and employees well by being strong during times of need.  Under the legislation, officials are empowered to visit businesses and many people who were doing wrong or exploiting others rightly ended up in court.  There must be a balance between employee and employer rights, but the Bill is out of balance.  We should encourage employers and employees to work together to survive these rough times, not drive a wedge between them, which I believe the Bill will do.</p><p pid="588.7">I appeal to the Minister of State to refrain from introducing the Bill.  We are putting ourselves more and more at risk of over-regulating and scaring away any foreign industries that may want to consider Ireland as a place in which to invest or any indigenous entrepreneurs who want to go into business.  The Bill, which is aimed at protecting employees, will do the complete opposite.  It will put them out of work because businesses will not be able to afford the new costs and will not want to risk taking on new employees.  Too often, we only realise that we have got something wrong when it is too late.  It is not yet too late to re-examine what we are doing.</p><p pid="588.8">NERA has existed on an interim basis since 2007 and we can already see the damage and trauma that it is causing.  We have witnessed many hotels and other catering outlets cease Sunday trading as a result of their strict enforcement of the hotel employment regulation orders.  It is not too late to put an end to this, but it will be much more difficult to stop NERA after it has been put on a statutory basis.</p><p pid="588.9">The Bill has got it wrong and it is not the time to focus on these matters.  I call on the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to park it and to stop wasting our time focusing on legislating small businesses out of business.  Instead, we should focus on supporting those businesses and getting ourselves out of our current situation.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2009-02-18T18:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.566.0&amp;m=542#g586.0">
	<title>Employment Law Compliance Bill 2008: Second Stage (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.566.0&amp;m=542#g586.0</link>
	<description>Yes.</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="586.1">Yes.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2009-02-18T18:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.566.0&amp;m=542#g584.0">
	<title>Employment Law Compliance Bill 2008: Second Stage (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-18.566.0&amp;m=542#g584.0</link>
	<description>May I share time with Deputy O&acirc;��Rourke?</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="584.1">May I share time with Deputy O’Rourke?</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2009-02-18T18:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-11.1590.0&amp;m=542#g1591.8">
	<title>Hospital Services. | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2009-02-11.1590.0&amp;m=542#g1591.8</link>
	<description>I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for allowing me to raise this serious matter.  I believe a death notice for South Tipperary General Hospital has appeared in the form of an information document...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="1591.2">I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for allowing me to raise this serious matter.  I believe a death notice for South Tipperary General Hospital has appeared in the form of an information document dated 29 January 2009 on the modernisation of acute services for the hospital group south-east.  A short few years ago, St Joseph’s County Medical and Maternity Hospital, Clonmel was renamed South Tipperary General Hospital at great expense and inconvenience to take account of the amalgamation with Our Lady’s County Surgical Hospital, Cashel.</p><p pid="1591.3">South Tipperary General Hospital under the new guise of modernisation of acute services will lose its identity and become part of a recognised, or possibly unrecognised, group — it will become a statistic in the HSE plan.  Lest anyone forget or needs reminding, the HSE is about saving lives, not saving money.  The situation in regard to South Tipperary General Hospital and the proposed reconfiguration of hospital services within the south-east, and its impact, is a matter of grave concern to the constituents of Tipperary South and to myself.</p><p pid="1591.5">The implementation of the transformation programme as required by the national services plan will commence, we are told, in March 2009 with the development of a steering group for the modernisation of acute hospital services for the HSE group south-east.  The steering group will have a membership initially comprised of four clinical directors — one from each hospital — and a hospital manager.  The role of the steering group will be to supposedly agree and plan for a re-configuration model of acute hospital care for the hospital group south-east, make recommendations on service delivery issues and oversee the implementation of the modernisation programme.  A project manager will support the planning and implementation phases of the programme and the planning phase will be completed by September 2009.</p><p pid="1591.6">I am concerned that we have too many programme managers within the HSE and too few frontline staff.  Under the HSE plan for the modernisation of services, the so-called aims of discussion are as follows: understanding and clarification of challenges, as if we did not know already; having a shared understanding of the need for change; a shared understanding of what we must do and how we should go about it; and timelines — all fancy jargon adopted by the HSE.  However, what we have is no two-way dialogue, completely one-way traffic, a tunnel vision on behalf of the HSE and its management and no proper, meaningful consultations with the extremely hard-working and dedicated staff at Clonmel.</p><p pid="1591.7">As I said, the death notice for South Tipperary General Hospital has appeared in the form of this information document, dated 29 January 2009, with its fancy title concerning the modernisation of acute services for the hospital group.  I am totally opposed to these new plans to remove out-of-hours services or accident and emergency services after 7 p.m., as well as the removal of maternity services and all acute hospital services.  This would mean that never again would a child be born in Tipperary, which is unacceptable, particularly when we have a top quality maternity service with large numbers of deliveries each year.</p><p pid="1591.8">While I have no issue with centres of excellence, as with speakers on another debate today, I believe we must have centres of excellence in place before we attempt to remove services.  A radical change in the direction of health care policy is needed in the Department of Health and Children and the Health Service Executive.  Democratic accountability must return to the Minister and services must return to our local hospitals.  There must be a health care system which truly places the patient first and which is capable of meeting the needs of our communities.  I remain committed to fight might and main to keep all services in South Tipperary General Hospital.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2009-02-11T21:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-08.508.0&amp;m=542#g528.0">
	<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=542#g528.0</link>
	<description>I am delighted to have the opportunity to speak to the Bill.  Our democracy is built on a number of core values, namely, free elections, free speech and freedom of assembly, of which free speech...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="528.1">I am delighted to have the opportunity to speak to the Bill.  Our democracy is built on a number of core values, namely, free elections, free speech and freedom of assembly, of which free speech is among the most precious.  In recent decades Ireland has given greater scope to freedom of expression.  Long gone are the days when classic films and works of literature were censored.  This went on for too long and constitutes a black mark against the early days of the State.  We now are much more liberal about what is permissible to be sold and broadcast.  </p><p pid="528.2">It seems, however, that some things are still forbidden.  For example, a recent radio advertisement for the Catholic bookseller Veritas was banned by the Broadcasting Complaints Commission, BCC, because it associated the phrase “spiritual gifts” with Holy Communion and confirmation.  As the advertisement made clear, the spiritual gifts in question were items such as rosary beads and prayer cards.  Last Christmas another advertisement by Veritas was not carried on RTE because it included the word “crib”.  While it beggars belief that advertisements for cribs and First Holy Communion gifts are deemed to be in breach of the law, that is the case.  Perhaps this is a good example of what the former Taoiseach, Deputy Bertie Ahern, called “aggressive secularism”.</p><p pid="528.3">It appears that our new found tolerance does not always extend to religion.  In fact, religion, even in its everyday form, is regarded as something suspect to be kept in a box.  How else is one to regard legislation that bans advertisements for cribs from the airwaves?  To bring home the absurdity of this latest advertisement ban, I will read it out in full.  It reads:</p><p pid="528.4">Come to Veritas for great Confirmation and First Holy Communion gift ideas. Choose from our diverse range of religious and inspirational gifts that include children’s literature, prayer books, rosary beads, religious medals and candles.  So if you want to give your loved one a spiritual gift which relates to what Holy Communion and Confirmation are really about, [come to] Veritas.</p><p pid="528.5">Could anything be more harmless?  In spite of this, the advertisement was held by the BCC to violate section 9 of the general advertising code, as developed in accordance with the Broadcasting Act 2001.  The relevant section states advertisements “directed towards a religious end” are “not acceptable”.  The legislation also bans advertisements which appear to promote the merits or otherwise of any particular religion.  To be fair, I also should point out that advertisements directed towards a political end also are banned.  However, this never has stopped secular newspapers from advertising their often highly political content.  There appears to be a double standard in the application of the relevant legislation.</p><p pid="528.6">The American constitution creates an absolute right to free speech.  Politicians and religious groups are free to broadcast their views on air as long as they can pay to so do.  No one is calling for such a free for all regime in Ireland and no one wants to see the negative advertising that occurs in the United States filling our airwaves.  However, it must be possible to find a happy medium.  How can the use of the word “crib” or the phrase “spiritual gifts” in connection with First Holy Communion seriously be considered harmful to society?  Such advertisements should not be banned out of an unreasonable fear of opening the door to the sort of extreme religion of which Members are rightly wary.</p><p pid="528.7">Although one can advertise tarot readings on the airwaves, one can only place religious advertisements on the airwaves in the most limited possible circumstances, even though religion, despite some of the legitimate criticisms which can be made against it, does much good in this country.  The new Broadcasting Bill presents Members with an excellent opportunity to amend the section dealing with religious advertising and introduce a law that is more in keeping with common sense.  I call on the Minister to seize this opportunity.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-10-08T18:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-01.489.0&amp;m=542#g564.0">
	<title>Energy Poverty: Motion | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-10-01.489.0&amp;m=542#g564.0</link>
	<description>The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Eamon Ryan, has proposed that we commission an independent analysis of the transmission transfer, including costs, benefits...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="564.1">The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Eamon Ryan, has proposed that we commission an independent analysis of the transmission transfer, including costs, benefits and regulatory impact assessment.  This is set in the context of EU developments and the all-island single electricity market.  There is a need for engagement with all relevant stakeholders in the process of implementing Government policy on electricity transmission assets.  Government policy is clear and ensures the strategic future of both EirGrid and ESB as strong viable semi-State bodies with vital roles to play in delivering our national targets for emissions reduction, renewable energy and energy efficiency as well as security of supply and energy competitiveness.</p><p pid="564.2">Earlier this year, the ESB announced its new strategic framework to 2020, which will see an unprecedented capital investment programme by the company at home and abroad in support of our goals for renewable energy, energy efficiency, emissions reduction and energy security.  EirGrid’s development strategy 2025 will be published shortly.  This will set out an ambitious national strategy for critical investment in the transmission system over the next two decades in support of economic, social and regional development and the integration of renewable energy generation.</p><p pid="564.3">Financial supports are available to homeowners under two schemes funded by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources to improve the energy efficiency in existing homes.  We would like to see more funding in place for these schemes.  However, for households on low incomes, such as those in receipt of fuel allowance, invalidity or disability benefit, the warmer homes scheme, which I commend to the House and which is managed by Sustainable Energy Ireland, will install cavity wall insulation, attic insulation, a boiler lagging jacket, draught proofing measures and so on.  Advice is also provided to householders on minimising energy use, which is important.  These measures are provided free or at a token cost.  The Minister, Deputy Ryan, has made €5 million available to this scheme in 2008.</p><p pid="564.4">Other householders can avail of grants of up to 30% of the cost of energy efficiency improvement measures under the home energy saving scheme.  The Minister launched this scheme in 2008 on a pilot basis, in a limited number of areas, and with a budget of €5 million.  The home energy saving scheme has been designed to encourage and incentivise house owners to improve the energy efficiency of their homes in order to reduce energy use and carbon dioxide emissions.  The pilot scheme sought to aid approximately 2,000 homes in 2008, operating in four separate components.  The first three components were defined geographic areas.  To qualify for the supports which were made available, applying households and the subject houses had to be located in counties Limerick, Clare or Tipperary.</p><p pid="564.5">I believe the fuel allowance scheme must be increased in line with the rising cost of fuel.  I encourage the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Deputy Hanafin, to do her level best in view of the circumstances in which we now find ourselves to have a meaningful increase in the allowance to cover the cost of all forms of heating in our homes, especially for the most vulnerable.  With many previous speakers and members of the communications committee, I am very disappointed with the lack of response from the oil companies in reducing the price of oil when the cost of a barrel of oil on international markets has returned to its cost eight or ten months ago.  The cost of oil at the coalface must be decreased also.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-10-01T19:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-06-26.211.0&amp;m=542#g235.0">
	<title>Intoxicating Liquor Bill 2008: Second Stage (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-06-26.211.0&amp;m=542#g235.0</link>
	<description>I welcome the Bill and the debate and compliment the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the former Minister in that Department, Deputy Brian Lenihan.  While alcohol is part of the...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="235.1">I welcome the Bill and the debate and compliment the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the former Minister in that Department, Deputy Brian Lenihan.  While alcohol is part of the social fabric, for too long it has been widely abused.  Legislative reforms are needed to tackle public disorder and alcohol-related harm resulting from excessive alcohol consumption.  Every weekend we see evidence of this need on our streets and in the accident and emergency departments of our hospitals.  The problem is not confined to large urban centres but also affects small towns and villages across the country.</p><p pid="235.2">The Bill will give effect to reforms recommended by the Government alcohol advisory group, which I thank for its work.  The Bill tackles the increased visibility and availability of alcohol through retail outlets with off-licences, while tightening the conditions under which premises with on-licences qualify for special exemption orders permitting them to remain open beyond normal licensing hours.  It also places renewed emphasis on enforcement of licensing law, particularly in regard to underage drinking.</p><p pid="235.3">The Bill also strengthens public order provisions by including measures to curtail alcohol consumption in public places, especially by those under 18 years, and allowing the Garda to seize alcohol.  The Garda Síochána will also have powers to seize alcohol from any person, regardless of age, where the consumption of alcohol in a public place is causing, or likely to cause, a breach of the peace.</p><p pid="235.4">We have one of the highest alcohol consumption levels in the European Union.  Average consumption of pure alcohol per person over 15 years of age in 2006 was over 13 litres, a frightening statistic.</p><p pid="235.5">The proposals in the Bill represent a coherent and carefully balanced package of practical measures and reforms which are designed to reduce access to alcohol, including its visibility within retail outlets, while also strengthening measures to tackle public disorder and anti-social behaviour on the streets and in our communities.</p><p pid="235.6">I welcome the new Garda powers to seize alcohol which are in addition to existing powers to deal with public order offences.  The new powers will permit early intervention by the Garda and help to prevent offences taking place.  There has been too much of an increase in the number of supermarkets, convenience stores and petrol stations with off-licences in recent years.  At the same time, there has been a remarkable increase in the scale and frequency of alcohol promotions and price discounts.  The result has been a marked increase in alcohol availability and visibility within these mixed trading premises.  I feel sorry for people grappling with problem of alcoholism who have to enter these premises to buy their groceries and see all the alcohol promotions before them.  That is not a satisfactory situation.</p><p pid="235.7">The Bill provides for the separation of alcohol products from other products in premises which are engaging in mixed trading, such as supermarkets, convenience stores and petrol stations.  There is a need to curtail the availability of such products in these outlets.  We also need to support our traditional pubs because in the main they have served us well over the years.  They were very careful in regard to their licences which had to be renewed every year.  They were pragmatic in regard to how they dealt with underage and overage drinking and persons whom they felt could have consumed too much alcohol.  They were sensible people in the main and compliant with the legislation.</p><p pid="235.8">The proposals set out in Part 2 contain reforms relating to the sale and consumption of alcohol, including measures to improve compliance with and enforcement of licensing law.  Section 4 proposes generally to restrict off-sales of alcohol to the period between 10.30 a.m. and 10 p.m.; and 12.30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays and St. Patrick’s Day.  The existing concession which permits the sale of alcohol from 7.30 a.m. to 10.30 a.m. in supermarkets and convenience stores is being repealed.  That is a welcome measure.</p><p pid="235.9">At present, a wine retailer’s off-licence may be obtained directly from the Revenue Commissioners with a District Court certificate.  Applicants for a spirit retailer’s off-licence or a beer retailer’s off-licence require such a certificate.  As recommended by the advisory group, section 5 provides that in future an applicant for a wine retailer’s off-licence will also require a District Court certificate.</p><p pid="235.10">Section 6 extends the grounds on which the District Court may refuse to grant a certificate for a spirit, beer or wine retailer’s off-licence.  Similar grounds already apply to applications for on-licences under the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2000.  Objections may be made at the relevant District Court hearing by the local Garda superintendent and local residents or residents’ groups.  When granting a certificate, the District Court may also impose a condition that a CCTV system be installed.</p><p pid="235.11">Following discussions with the trade bodies representing supermarkets and convenience stores, the Minister is considering whether a code of practice proposed by the sector is a workable alternative to section 8.  As part of the code, the sector would sign up on a voluntary basis to implementation of arrangements which, if implemented, would achieve the Bill’s objectives.  In particular, the code will require the display of alcohol in a specified part of the premises.  It is vital to the success of any code that all supermarket multiples and convenience store groups sign up to it and implement it in an effective manner.  Not only should they sign up to the code in writing but they should implement it in spirit and provide evidence to that effect.</p><p pid="235.12">The Bill is long overdue.  I am pleased it is to be enacted before the summer recess.  I hope, with the co-operation of all parties, that it will lead to an improvement in social life in Ireland.</p><p pid="235.13">I commend the Bill to the House.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-06-26T13:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-06-18.318.0&amp;m=542#g351.0">
	<title>Lisbon Treaty: Statements (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-06-18.318.0&amp;m=542#g351.0</link>
	<description>I want to thank the Irish people for engaging in the debate and for the high voter turnout on this treaty.  We must reflect on the results.  I thank Deputy Miche&Atilde;&iexcl;l Martin for his meeting last...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="351.1">I want to thank the Irish people for engaging in the debate and for the high voter turnout on this treaty.  We must reflect on the results.  I thank Deputy Micheál Martin for his meeting last Monday and wish the Taoiseach and his Ministers well in the quest for a solution. </p><p pid="351.2">People appear to have voted “No” for a wide variety of reasons and one cannot point to one issue.  There was much scaremongering on the “No” side on issues such as abortion, euthanasia, taxation and neutrality.  There was a suggestion from the “No” side that we could get a better deal by voting “No”.  The fact is that Ireland was party to this treaty.  We have been given assurances on issues such as abortion, neutrality and taxation, and there is no panacea.  Lisbon, in effect, was plan B.</p><p pid="351.3">The “Yes” side’s argument was much more difficult because the Lisbon treaty did not seek to do anything radical.  Rather, it was a document which sought to accommodate a 27-member EU that could be run efficiently and effectively.  It was a document that was necessary for an expanded EU and made the Union more democratic.  While I welcome the engagement of all the political parties — the majority of which were in favour of a “Yes” vote — Fine Gael is playing the blame game here today.  Deputy Bannon, for instance, has said in this House exactly the opposite to what really happened in Country Longford.  I have been asked to say this by my colleague.  A good campaign was run in Longford and the Taoiseach visited the county and canvassed with Fianna Fáil supporters.  Unlike Fianna Fáil, Deputy Bannon never even put up a poster, but I am not going to get into the blame game.  I believe we should not do so but instead go forward united because the whole world is watching us.  We need to focus on what we can do from here.  There is no single message because of the enormous range of issues raised on the “No” side and the major differences between the campaigning groups.  We need time to reflect on what the result of the referendum means for Ireland and its future direction.  A majority of member states have already fully ratified the treaty.  They have a right to say where they want this to go and we cannot dictate to them.</p><p pid="351.4">There is a lack of knowledge about the institutions of Europe and people need to be better informed.  This is a fundamental reason that many people voted “No”.  There is a disconnect between the institutions and the Irish public.  Business people feel particularly disconnected with the amount of bureaucracy and legislation that comes down the line from Europe.  I believe that Ireland is too zealous in implementing EU regulations unlike some other member states.  In many cases people said they voted “No” because they were not sure what the treaty contained.</p><p pid="351.5">Yesterday the Taoiseach stated that for 35 years much of Ireland’s place in the international arena has been realised through membership of the European Union.  Throughout that time, the people have been largely comfortable with the overall direction of the Union.  While I respect the decision of the Irish people last Thursday, I believe the EU has been the most effective and advanced response to globalisation.  If the train is leaving, we cannot afford to miss it.</p><p pid="351.6">The rejection of the Lisbon treaty means that Ireland must examine where it is going and consult and engage with those who voted “No”.  Most commentators agree Ireland has benefited from its engagement with Europe, but I am not sure the Irish electorate or those who campaigned for a “No” vote were aware of how much so.</p><p pid="351.7">The Ireland of 2008 is unrecognisable to the small inward looking country that first joined the EEC in 1973.  The European Coal and Steel Community, established in 1952, was to help economic growth and cement peace between France and Germany, historic enemies.  It worked well, with iron production increasing fourfold during the 1950s.  When coal production declined, the ECSC made provision to retrain hundreds of thousands of affected miners.  It was the systems of social management such as early retirement, mobility grants and training that greatly helped in times of economic crises.  At the same time in Ireland, thousands were forced to leave their families, wives and children to seek work across the water.  Ireland’s only way forward is in the European Union.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-06-18T16:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-05-14.510.0&amp;m=542#g533.0">
	<title>Defamation Bill 2006 [Seanad]: Second Stage (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-05-14.510.0&amp;m=542#g533.0</link>
	<description>I congratulate the new Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy Dermot Ahern, and wish him, his wife and family and all his officials the very best for the future.  His is a...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="533.1">I congratulate the new Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy Dermot Ahern, and wish him, his wife and family and all his officials the very best for the future.  His is a difficult role.  I compliment the former Minister, Deputy Brian Lenihan, on the role he played in the Department and his far-seeing developments.</p><p pid="533.2">The reform of our defamation laws has been long in the making but is to be welcomed, even though overdue.  The setting up of the Press Council and the Office of the Press Ombudsman was the work of the former Minister, Mr. Michael McDowell.  It is no easy task to reach agreement among all the elements of the media industry to the code of conduct and complaints mechanism.  Credit for this considerable achievement is due to the Irish press industry steering committee which brought together the representatives of the national and regional newspapers, as well as the UK newspapers with Irish editions and the periodical publishers.</p><p pid="533.3">The role of the Press Ombudsman and the Press Council is to ensure newspapers and magazines abide by a code of practice agreed with the support of all major newspaper and magazine publishers and the National Union of Journalists.  The concept is to give the public a faster and cheaper avenue to resolving grievances with newspapers than the courts provide.  We all know that going to court should be a last resort and can be very time consuming and an arduous and lengthy process.  I would like to see newspapers resolve all complaints internally in the first instance and most papers and magazines are well equipped to do this.  It is hoped complaints will be resolved within six weeks once the system is fully operational.  Only in cases where complainants and publishers fail to reach an agreement between themselves will the Press Ombudsman or the Press Council impose any sanctions.</p><p pid="533.4">A section of the proposed Defamation Bill will allow newspapers to apologise where they have made genuine errors.  Fear of litigation if an apology is offered can be an impediment.  Any publication that offers an apology to a third party may find itself open to legal proceedings if this is a case of defamation or if untruths are told about a person or an organisation.  This has long resulted in a reluctance on the part of newspapers to apologise, even when they recognise that an error has been made.  This is a grey area.  Some have reservations and concerns about media intrusion and this is not exclusive to those of us involved in politics.  However, the former Minister, Deputy Brian Lenihan, was emphatic that if the media failed to show respect for the right to privacy as specified in their own code of practice, the Government would proceed rapidly with its privacy legislation.  This is to be welcomed as a further measure to strengthen this new provision.</p><p pid="533.5">The Bill underpins the activities of the Press Council and the Press Ombudsman and removes the liability previously associated with an apology.  This change will strengthen the hand of the Press Ombudsman and the Press Council when dealing with complaints against journalists and editors.  There is a new defence of fair and reasonable publication on a matter of public interest.  This is an important development in terms of the ability of the media to investigate and report on matters of public interest.  This is to be welcomed and the media are to be thanked.  We owe them a great debt for their investigations.  They bring us the news and report on what is happening.</p><p pid="533.6">Also of importance is the ability of the media to investigate themselves in cases involving wrong-doing.  This is not an easy defence to plead and not for use in trivial circumstances.  Many are sceptical about libel law reform as they fear that any action taken against the media will result in the media exacting their revenge such as making them a target for further negative stories or publicity.  This would certainly be the view of many in public life.  The world of journalism must be open to public scrutiny.  The code of ethics sets out clear guidelines which must have the full support of all the stakeholders — publishers, editors and journalists.  The establishment of the Press Council code of practice and the Defamation Bill uphold the principle of a free press but also urge journalists to be fair, accurate and truthful and to respect the right of all individuals, including public figures, to a private life.</p><p pid="533.7">Bereavement is an area where we hope newspapers could show more sensitivity.  In regard to recent and ongoing events, I appeal to all organs of the media to exercise restraint.  There was a recent tragedy in Wexford and earlier this year in my community a horrific murder was committed in a rural parish.  Communities in those areas are not able to deal with the intrusion.  It is bad enough to suffer the trauma of a terrible deed and senseless act and to try to come to terms with it while comforting the grieving families without the intrusion of the media who have a scrum in the community for photographs and background evidence of the family.  That is unacceptable.</p><p pid="533.8">If a person is convicted of a crime and gets a custodial sentence which he serves, he pays his debt to society.  Hopefully, he will have been rehabilitated while in prison.  When that person is released, he is a free person.</p><p pid="533.9">In the recent case in Wexford, nobody could have any facts in regard to what happened.  Yet journalists came on radio and television and tried to piece together the last desperate acts that may have taken place in that household and put a picture to a tragic story.  That is deplorable and must be condemned out of hand.  Nobody could or should be expected to condone that.</p><p pid="533.10">Where a person seeks legal redress following an apology, which I had to do and got it, the cost of defamation litigation is over priced.  It is almost impossible to obtain the relevant apology because of the costs incurred by the injured party and, if successful, by the newspapers who have to print an apology.  That is unfair also.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-05-14T18:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-03-12.1198.0&amp;m=542#g1204.5">
	<title>Hospital Services. | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-03-12.1198.0&amp;m=542#g1204.5</link>
	<description>I also thank the Ceann Comhairle for allowing us to raise this matter tonight.  I further thank my colleague for sharing his time with me.   I, too, am extremely concerned about the situation in...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="1204.2">I also thank the Ceann Comhairle for allowing us to raise this matter tonight.  I further thank my colleague for sharing his time with me.  </p><p pid="1204.3">I, too, am extremely concerned about the situation in South Tipperary General Hospital where a new state-of-the-art 23-bed acute unit lies idle, although it was designed and constructed to the highest possible standards and is fully equipped.  I pay tribute to the hospital staff who, from the receptionist at the front door to the top surgeons, are under pressure in trying to deal with the awful conditions under which they operate.  Many patients are on trolleys or wait for hours to be seen while this unit lies idle.  There are similar cases around the country.  I condemn out of hand the HSE’s lack of joined-up thinking and the inability of senior HSE staff to visit hospital management to explain why the unit remains closed.  It is unbelievable that this unit which has been designed and built to the highest standards is allowed to lie idle.  It is a travesty that millions of euro have been spent on the unit but it remains idle.  Significant investment has been made in the hospital in general in the past ten years since the decision to relocate all services to Clonmel.  This unit was part of the package which the nursing staff, doctors and other medical staff bought into and which is now being reneged on.</p><p pid="1204.4">I call on the Minister to visit the hospital and meet senior management to give a date when this magnificent service can be put into operation.  This would allow staff to deal with patients on a daily basis in the conditions to which they are entitled.  A total of 790 staff work in the hospital.  We have 247 beds in addition to those in this unit.  The staff are doing a top quality job and in need of our support.  People in south Tipperary do not need such confusion, which is leading to morale being at an all-time low in the hospital.  I do not know how staff continue to work there on a daily basis with decisions like this.</p><p pid="1204.5">Another outstanding issue is the provision of palliative care beds which were promised but have not been delivered.  The situation is unfair to all concerned and the public which supports the hospital.  The catchment area includes approximately 80,000 people.  I plead with the Minister to come and see the unit for herself at first hand.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-03-12T21:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-02-28.389.0&amp;m=542#g399.0">
	<title>Student Support Bill 2008: Second Stage (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-02-28.389.0&amp;m=542#g399.0</link>
	<description>I compliment the Minister and her officials on the introduction of the Bill.  I preface my remarks by paying a warm tribute to county council officials throughout the country who operated the...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="399.1">I compliment the Minister and her officials on the introduction of the Bill.  I preface my remarks by paying a warm tribute to county council officials throughout the country who operated the education grants for many years.  The area of student grants was badly in need of reform.  Education is for life.  It is a lifelong experience, from the cradle to the grave.</p><p pid="399.2">I am pleased the Department of Education and Science consulted widely with all stakeholders.  I welcome the Bill in the context of those consultations.  Most of the parties involved warmly and eagerly support the Bill.</p><p pid="399.3">The purpose of the Bill is to make provision for student grants and to enable students to attend higher and further education courses.  Such education is vital as young people are our finest asset.  I welcome the many students who are present in the Gallery and I wish them well in the future in their education and careers.  The principal objective of the Bill is to create a more coherent system for the administration of these grants, which will facilitate consistency of application and improved client accessibility.  In brief, it will enable the development of an awards system that can deliver grants on time to those who need them most.  This is paramount.  In the past it has been traumatic for students and their families who had to wait unduly for grants to be paid.  A fair appeal system was not in place and much stress and trauma was involved.</p><p pid="399.4">The Bill provides for the structures around which an efficient and customer-friendly student grant process can be built, as well as providing the general basis on which students will, in future, be eligible for a grant to attend a course of higher or further education.  I thank the VEC, Department officials and council staff.  I am delighted that it has been decided to put the scheme under the remit of the VEC.  Having served on a VEC for almost 20 years and on its adult education board I am conscious that it is well placed to deal with all matters of education, especially further and continuing education.</p><p pid="399.5">I welcome the new appeals system.  It is important to have an independent appeals system.  Fairness and transparency are vital to this process.  Reference has been made by other speakers to the importance of these grants to the underprivileged and low income families.  However, self-employed people who have a reasonable standard of living can experience difficulties in business or health.  I almost dare not refer to the dreaded tax clearance certificate but problems can occur when accounts are not prepared in time.  It is important to have a fair appeals system and proper recognition of the difficulties that can be experienced by small family businesses.  I propose that assessment of income should be based on net income rather than gross income as capital allowances for small businesses are not taken into account.</p><p pid="399.6">I compliment the Minister on the introduction of the Bill.  I welcome the residence changes.  It is important to streamline this area as it has been a cause of concern in the past.  In some cases young people of 19 or 20 years no longer live at home and they have a right to be assessed independently of their parents.  I welcome the fact that this will be the case.  I accept that transparency is necessary in this regard.  The appeals process will ensure this is the case.  Fairness to all sides is important.</p><p pid="399.7">Like previous speakers, I hope the final version of the Bill will be warmly supported.  I commend the Bill to the House.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-02-28T14:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-02-13.383.0&amp;m=542#g405.0">
	<title>Social Welfare and Pensions Bill 2008: Second Stage (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-02-13.383.0&amp;m=542#g405.0</link>
	<description>I compliment the Minister, Deputy Cullen, and his officials on the very comprehensive package introduced in the Bill.  We are committed to building an inclusive society.  We have delivered...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="405.1">I compliment the Minister, Deputy Cullen, and his officials on the very comprehensive package introduced in the Bill.  We are committed to building an inclusive society.  We have delivered unprecedented increases in social welfare and now we want to go further and end consistent poverty in Ireland once and for all.  In February we launched the National Action Plan for Social Inclusion 2007-2016: Building an Inclusive Society, with the aim of reducing the number of those experiencing consistent poverty to between 2% and 4% by 2012 and eliminating consistent poverty by 2016.</p><p pid="405.2">The investment of €50 billion in social inclusion over the years of the new national development plan will deliver a comprehensive assault on poverty and exclusion.  This will fund pre-school education for children, provide greater support for lone parents and the long-term unemployed, help people with disabilities to secure access to employment and older people to access community care services, as well as helping communities to provide housing, health services and strategies to assist newcomers to integrate into Irish society.</p><p pid="405.3">We have significantly reduced poverty levels.  Analysis suggests that 250,000 people, including 100,000 children, have been lifted out of deprivation and hardship since 1997 as a result of our targeted measures and supports.  We have implemented the largest series of social welfare and child benefit increases in the history of social welfare in this country.  This year we are providing supports and services which aim to benefit more than 1.5 million people.</p><p pid="405.4">Tax changes in 2008 mean that those on the minimum wage pay no income tax.  The latest results from the EU survey on income and living conditions indicate that the rate of consistent poverty in the population in 2006 was 6.5%, having reduced from 8.2% in 2003.  Most notably the rate of consistent poverty among older people has come down to 2.2 % in 2006.</p><p pid="405.5">The new Government has appointed a Minister of State with cross-departmental responsibility for older people.  I am delighted my county colleague, Deputy Hoctor, has that role.  We have prioritised improved support for carers, expansion of community-based supports and improvements in the quality and availability of hospital and residential care.  In budget 2008 we are providing €135 million for health services for older people.  In the past two years, this Government has funded the largest ever expansion in services for older people with the provision of over €400 million.  This year, an additional €135 million is being provided for the introduction in 2008 of the new long-term residential care scheme, a fair deal, costing €110 million, and the provision of €25 million for complementary community support services for older people and for palliative care.</p><p pid="405.6">I am concerned about two issues in particular, which I am aware the Minister is examining.  I refer to monitoring fees for socially monitored alarms, for which the fees vary from €60 to €90 per person, and personal information packs, PIPs.  Currently, approximately 60,000 persons are supplied with socially monitored alarm systems which are funded by the community supports for older people programme through the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.  The annual cost to the Exchequer would be approximately €4.5 million.  That would be money well spent as some of the systems that are provided to households become dormant because people, for whatever reason, do not or cannot make the payment for the monitoring fee, which is only between €50 and €80.</p><p pid="405.7">The personal information pack, PIP, is based on the English “bottle in the fridge” programme.  This is a system whereby an elderly or vulnerable person’s medical history, medication etc. is recorded and safely stored within the home, usually in the fridge.  It is available to the emergency services in the event of them being called to a person’s home.  The cost of this measure, which is a nominal €2, could be included on a person’s medical card.</p><p pid="405.8">I am a board member of Muintir na Tíre which runs the community alert programme and I am very enthusiastic about this measure as it would cut down hugely on the critical time after paramedics are called to a house where somebody was found in a comatose state.  In some cases a person can be in hospital for up to 24 hours before important medical documents are sourced.</p><p pid="405.9">All such documentation, with the assistance and co-operation of the nursing sector and the general practitioners, could be safely available on this legible package that is stored in the fridge and the medics would know where to look for it.  I ask the Minister to consider that.  I compliment him on the excellent reforms in the package and wish him well with their implementation.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-02-13T16:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-02-13.383.0&amp;m=542#g403.0">
	<title>Social Welfare and Pensions Bill 2008: Second Stage (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2008-02-13.383.0&amp;m=542#g403.0</link>
	<description>I wish to share time with my colleague, Deputy Byrne.</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="403.1">I wish to share time with my colleague, Deputy Byrne.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2008-02-13T16:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-12-11.303.0&amp;m=542#g312.0">
	<title>Financial Resolution No. 5: General (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-12-11.303.0&amp;m=542#g312.0</link>
	<description>I am delighted to address the House on budget 2008.  I compliment the Minister, Deputy Cowen, and his officials for the manner in which they produced this prudent document.  The Minister has...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="312.1">I am delighted to address the House on budget 2008.  I compliment the Minister, Deputy Cowen, and his officials for the manner in which they produced this prudent document.  The Minister has availed of the opportunity to be fiscally responsible and to react to the changes to the economy since last year’s budget.  The management of the national debt is most responsible.  It has been kept to approximately 25% of GDP, which is one of the lowest in the developed world.  The national development plan is an ambitious programme for investment in the future.  The top priority is for our continued economic and social development.  This budget continues to implement the national development plan, providing important infrastructure in transport, education, housing, environmental services and health.  We are investing in building up our skills and enhancing our competitiveness internationally.</p><p pid="312.2">The budget also prioritises the environment through a range of measures on VRT, motor tax, VAT changes, energy conservation and research, and carbon reduction measures.</p><p pid="312.3">I welcome the proposals supporting home ownership.  The ceiling on mortgage interest relief has increased for first-time buyers to €10,000 for a single person and €20,000 for a married couple.  Stamp duty on residential property has been revised so that the first €125,000 is exempt.  The above measures are very important and will help to kick-start the important house building industry.</p><p pid="312.4">I especially welcome the broad range of improvements in social welfare.  The increase on last year’s budget will cost €980 million in a full year.  This means social welfare expenditure in 2008 will be more than triple the level set by the Labour and Fine Gael parties when they were last in Government.  Furthermore, as a result of the changes made in budget 2002, all social welfare weekly increases will be paid with effect from 1 January 2008, which is most important.  As a result, increases for those dependent on social welfare are payable more than five months earlier than was the case heretofore.</p><p pid="312.5">Other key positives in the budget include increases in the carer’s allowance, carer’s benefit and death benefit and pension increases of €14 per week.  This has been warmly welcomed in my constituency of south Tipperary.  I spoke to many pensioners who receive pensions from abroad and they are envious of the rates of pension available here.</p><p pid="312.6">The respite care grant has been increased by €200 from June 2008.  Minimum maternity benefit and adoptive benefit rates have been increased to €221.  FÁS payments have been increased in line with social welfare.  This is important as people employed on such schemes do valuable work and it is vital that we reward them.</p><p pid="312.7">Family income supplement income thresholds will increase by €10 per week, which will improve the situation for large families.  I referred to old age pensions.  We are honouring our election promise in 2002 to bring the pension to €200 per week.  Prior to the 2007 election we pledged to increase pensions to €300 over the lifetime of this Government and we are well on the way with the increases given this year.  I warmly applaud the Minister, Deputy Cowen, and his officials.  I fully support the measures taken in this budget.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2007-12-11T20:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-11-29.173.0&amp;m=542#g184.0">
	<title>National Drugs Strategy: Statements | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-11-29.173.0&amp;m=542#g184.0</link>
	<description>The annual report for 2007 of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime states that the total number of drug users worldwide is now estimated at some 200 million.  This is a shocking figure,...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="184.1">The annual report for 2007 of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime states that the total number of drug users worldwide is now estimated at some 200 million.  This is a shocking figure, equivalent to approximately 5% of the global population aged between 15 and 64 years.  We must constantly strive to ensure that the measures and policies in place to address the problem of drugs are appropriate and flexible enough to respond to what is a global and dynamic issue.</p><p pid="184.2">The Government remains resolutely committed to tackling the problem of drug misuse through the National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008.  The strategy addresses the problem under pillar headings of education and prevention, supply reduction, treatment and rehabilitation, and research.  It is firmly founded on the principle that drug misuse must be addressed in an integrated manner across these headings through a co-operative approach involving the statutory, community and voluntary treatment sectors.</p><p pid="184.3">The Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, under the stewardship of the Minister of State, Deputy Pat Carey, is the lead Department in co-ordinating the implementation of the national drugs strategy.  This co-ordinated and integrated approach, involving all the relevant players concerned with the issue, is the only way in which real and meaningful progress can continue to be made in tackling the drugs problem.  Significant resources continue to be allocated to a range of measures dedicated to addressing the issue.  A good example of this is the allocation of €50 million to the Vote of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs for the drugs initiative this year.  This represents a 16% increase on the 2006 allocation.</p><p pid="184.4">We must evaluate the current drugs situation, harness our experiences during the past six years of the strategy and utilise what we have learned from the outcomes achieved when developing a new national drugs strategy for the period 2009 to 2016.  Under the remit of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the area of drug supply reduction and drug law enforcement remains a key feature of the Government’s drug policy framework.  Enforcement of the law relating to drugs very much continues to be a key element in the Government’s policing priorities.  Underpinning this approach, the Garda Síochána will continue to invoke a number of broad strategic responses in addressing the issue.  I would like to see dedicated Garda drug squads in every division, which we had in the past.  Some of those have disappeared over time but there is a great need to have such drugs squads.</p><p pid="184.5">Under the strategy, the Garda national drugs unit co-ordinates large-scale operations against drug dealing and trafficking and unit personnel either investigate such cases or assist local investigation teams.  Policing operations continue to dismantle drug trafficking networks and have led to the arrest in recent times of major criminals based here and abroad involved in drugs.  Such measures must continue to be vigorously pursued by the Garda Síochána.</p><p pid="184.6">There is also a role for the community alert programme, a national initiative I am involved with under Muintir na Tíre.  There is a role for neighbourhood watch schemes and community policing.  It is vital we have community support and activity to look out for each other.</p><p pid="184.7">Additional Garda resources are coming on stream all the time.  Such resources will facilitate the new Garda Commissioner, Fachtna Murphy, in the allocation of additional manpower to areas most in need, including areas with significant drug problems.  There can be no room for complacency in our response to drug misuse and the implementation of the national drugs strategy is a crucial part of the Government’s work in the coming years.</p><p pid="184.8">The Government’s integrated approach to addressing the drug problems that threaten the fabric of this country must be viewed by our constituents as a bipartisan commitment by the Government to ultimately achieving a drug-free environment.  This would not be unlike the efforts expended in creating a smoke-free environment in workplaces and places of recreation, which have had unprecedented results.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2007-11-29T13:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-11-29.173.0&amp;m=542#g182.0">
	<title>National Drugs Strategy: Statements | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-11-29.173.0&amp;m=542#g182.0</link>
	<description>I propose to share time with Deputy Joe Behan.</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="182.1">I propose to share time with Deputy Joe Behan.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2007-11-29T13:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-11-21.302.0&amp;m=542#g362.0">
	<title>Young People: Motion (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-11-21.302.0&amp;m=542#g362.0</link>
	<description>I wish to share time with Deputy Chris Andrews. I do not intend to malign young people.  On the contrary, society and elected Members must understand the pressures and anxieties young people...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="362.1">I wish to share time with Deputy Chris Andrews.</p><p pid="362.3">I do not intend to malign young people.  On the contrary, society and elected Members must understand the pressures and anxieties young people experience and try to alleviate them through effective local and national policies.  It is an important job of Government and public representatives to make and implement policies about young people on their behalf and in their best interests.  Young people have never been so privileged or had so much, materially at least.  However, in too many cases material success has been accompanied by pressure to succeed, depression and alcohol or drug problems.  Thankfully, the number of registered suicides has declined in recent years.  However, it is a matter of concern that more than one quarter of all deaths by suicide occur among young males aged in their 20s.  The recent national campaign encouraging people to talk about their mental health is a step in the right direction in removing the stigma many men have about openly discussing their feelings.</p><p pid="362.4">Some 45 child and adolescent mental health teams are in place.  The mental health strategy, A Vision for Change, requires the recruitment of 40 additional child adolescent mental health teams.  This will be a difficult challenge.  I do not want anyone to die on our roads and the Road Safety Authority’s current campaign on carnage on our roads is important.  However, the number of people who die each year as a result of self-harm is almost as high as the number who die on our roads, yet it generates minimal comment.</p><p pid="362.5">Although all urgent cases of depression are seen immediately, the waiting list for treatment remains too long.  The young lives of many of those languishing on waiting lists are on hold and in many cases those involved do not share the experiences of their peers, whether in terms of socialising with friends, playing sport after school or generally enjoying their childhood and adolescence.  Good work is being carried out by the young social innovators programme on a social awareness education and action programme for 15 to 18 year olds.  More than 5,000 people participated in the annual programme, with a showcase event of more than 200 projects, many of which relate to mental health promotion and-or suicide prevention.</p><p pid="362.6">The link between physical exercise and good mental health has long been established.  It is vital for young people’s mental and physical well-being that they have an opportunity to engage in sport and other recreational activities.  In this digital age, many young people spend their time texting friends or communicating with others on Bebo, Myspace or other Internet chat rooms.  This activity appears to have replaced traditional methods of socialising, such as playing a game of football after school.  Last week, PlayStation launched hurling and Gaelic football games.  However, like all good Tipperary men, I prefer live action to playing sport on a video game.  To this end, we must ensure young people have the resources and facilities they need to play sport.  The value and importance of being a member of a club or team cannot be underestimated.  It teaches young people responsibility, social skills and the importance of teamwork and fair play, values which cannot be gleaned from PlayStation.</p><p pid="362.7">Last July, a youth programme in Fethard in my constituency was discontinued, despite the community having invested a great deal of work in establishing the project, which employed a youth care worker.  Unfortunately, as in many other areas, funding for the project was discontinued.  Investment in our youth, particularly in programmes of this nature, is vital if we are to keep young people on the right track, show them attractive options and ensure they do not follow the wrong path.</p><p pid="362.8">All young people are citizens in their own right and it is vital the Government recognises their concerns and encourages their participation when it implements legislation of concern to young people.  Many youth bodies and forums allow young people to become involved in their communities.  As the nation’s leaders, we should encourage young people to participate in local communities and at national level.  We should continue to encourage the use of the National Youth Council of Ireland as a framework for involvement.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2007-11-21T18:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>
<item rdf:about="http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-10-10.429.0&amp;m=542#g439.0">
	<title>Charities Bill 2007: Second Stage (Resumed) | D&amp;aacute;il debates</title>
	<link>http://www.kildarestreet.com/debates/?id=2007-10-10.429.0&amp;m=542#g439.0</link>
	<description>The benefit for housing associations in having charitable recognition has been to receive various forms of tax exemptions relating to their activities and this should continue.  We must remember...</description>
	<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p pid="439.1">The benefit for housing associations in having charitable recognition has been to receive various forms of tax exemptions relating to their activities and this should continue.  We must remember that not all charities are the same.  In conclusion, I ask the Minister not to include unnecessary and cumbersome duplication of dual reporting for charities in this Bill.</p>]]></content:encoded>
	<dc:date>2007-10-10T16:00:00+00:00</dc:date>
</item>


</rdf:RDF>