Michael McCarthy (Labour)

I have two points, one of which has already been raised. I ask the Leader to organise an immediate debate with the new Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Deputy Brennan, so he might assure both Houses that those who accepted the minimum share scheme offered by the special savings incentive accounts will not have their social welfare payments negatively affected. It is critical that we secure an immediate assurance on that. After all, many of those savers were encouraged by the former Minister for Finance, Deputy McCreevy, to take up the scheme. It is important we clarify that matter.

I agree with the decision taken on the European Commission by Mr. Barroso. It is a sad day when the majority of our representatives would have voted for someone who was to take up the justice portfolio in light of the comments he made about homosexuals and single parents——