Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes raised the issue of care of the elderly and said new legislation is promised. His remarks focused on Professor O'Neill's report and when it would be published. As is often the case in the Seanad, there already has been a good and balanced mini-debate on the matter by Members this morning. Of course, the report will be published. The Minister, Deputy Harney, has said as much, but there must be balance on it. We have heard welcome contributions from Members who have seen the legal advice presented to the joint committee, which explained why the report cannot yet be published. I am satisfied with that. I am not satisfied with what has taken place but I am satisfied with how it is being dealt with.

Senator O'Toole spoke about nursing homes and the mix of people required, not just health and safety personnel but also health professionals, to inspect such nursing homes. He said there might be a lack of expertise if people are drawn from just one agency. He also spoke about the Standards in Public Office Commission, which claims it does not have enough power. I think it wants to shackle us to the ground. The Senator demanded that we discuss this. If one opposes something like this it is similar to opposing virtue. Everybody supports standards; all Members genuinely do so. However, the idea seems to be that what one eats and drinks and who one meets must be constantly reshaped and re-shackled. It would be a good idea to have a full debate on the issue rather than simply say there should be more shackles and there should be more submission to them.

Senator Ryan also spoke about the Leas Cross scandal. His point was interesting. The report was commissioned by the HSE, not by the Minister. If the report came to the Minister directly, she or he would always have the right to submit it to the Legislature. I understand the manner in which this can be done is being examined.

The Senator also spoke about the soap opera of Aer Lingus. How right he is. I welcome the intervention of that gentleman. In my opinion, he has chutzpah and he took on the other guy. We shall wait to see how matters develop. The second gentleman will not be so quick to lampoon people in the future. The Senator is also seeking a debate on the fact that Ireland has slipped down the competitiveness league table.

Senator Kenneally referred to the report of the three wise men and asked if I would ascertain whether it might be possible to debate it in the House. I will endeavour to do so. The Senator also praised the Garda on its efficient and sensitive handling of the extremely sad death that took place in Waterford.

Senator Coghlan referred to the stage payments Bill. We must discover the current position regarding the latter.