Frank Feighan (Fine Gael)

I join Senators in trying to ensure that the State Pathologist, Dr. Marie Cassidy, is provided with the services of a State driver. In that context, it might be appropriate to ask the Leader to arrange a debate on the issue of value for money. The Members of the Oireachtas, some of whom have two Garda drivers, should lead by example and consider whether cutbacks can be made nearer to home. Many private sector businesses and public sector agencies are examining their overheads with a view to ensuring that value for money is achieved.

The money being allocated to many county enterprise boards, including that in County Roscommon, has decreased. I noticed this morning that parts of this building were being sandblasted, as part of an operation that was ongoing when I was elected to the House almost three years ago. Perhaps it is time for the Seanad to discuss the issue of value for money. We should lead by example. If we want people to tighten their belts and businesses to streamline their activities, it might be a good idea for those of us in these offices to act in a similar manner.