Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I also call for a debate on the conduct of the auctioneering business and, in that context, I congratulate Senator Ross on his appointment. We must call into question how people are assessed in graduating and acquiring certification to carry out auctioneering. I was disgusted by the revelations in the programme last night. While I know Senator Ross is very capable of handling his brief, it definitely highlights the fact that the process is very easy. After seeing the programme last night, I also feel that it is time for the "do it yourself" people to set themselves up and see how best we can overcome these problems. A debate on this issue is certainly well overdue.

I also congratulate the Minister for Health and Children on her imaginative scheme for dealing with long-term care in the future. By putting a charge on the value of a residence after death, we will relieve anxiety in many families who find themselves in a very difficult monetary situation when they try to pay the costs of putting an elderly relative in a nursing home. This is a worthwhile scheme, although some people may not like the idea of it. We should have a discussion on it some time in the new year and tease out where the weaknesses may be. The concept behind the scheme is worthwhile. It is a great and very imaginative idea and I hope it will work.