Feargal Quinn (Independent)

Will the Leader consider holding an urgent debate on the pensions crisis not only here, but also in Europe? One of the proposed solutions, the extension of the retirement age to 75 years, has recently received publicity. The matter was brought to my attention by a direction emanating from the European Union this week – it is political correctness gone over board – that recognition should not be given to the fact that women live longer than men and that equal funding for pensions should be allocated for the sexes. I expect the women of Europe will immediately rise in protest against the suggestion that their pensions should be equal to those of men despite the fact that they live much longer. This would be most unfair. A debate is required on the pensions crisis facing every country in Europe and the House should draw attention to the issue.

I join Senator Mooney in congratulating the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Deputy Dermot Ahern, on his initiative on spam mail. I raised this issue at a recent meeting of the Committee on European Affairs and I am delighted action will be taken on it. I gather, however, that the proposed initiative will not be sufficient if it only applies to Europe and it will have to extend much further. I agree completely with Senator Mooney's comments on the issue.