Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I am happy the social partners are more prepared than Members of the House to listen to good advice on some of these issues.

The new partnership agreement, Sustaining Progress, will be published today or tomorrow. It should be debated in the House while the different pillars are considering it. The House has discussed the issue of housing on many occasions and this is included in the agreement. The views of Members should be clearly articulated on these issues. I heard a clear lack of understanding on the issue of affordable housing being aired on television last night. This is just one of a wide variety of issues and outstanding matters that could be dealt with. I ask that this matter be discussed during Government time next week.

People are continually asking why matters of this nature are not discussed in the House. The main reason for this is that people do not get involved at any stage. I have said before that committees of the Houses should receive reports on such negotiations. The Oireachtas should articulate a view before any decision is taken by the four pillars.