Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I seek a debate on the tribunals and have sought one before now. It is a scandal that these Houses have allowed matters to get to this stage, although the tribunals have undoubtedly done some good work. As a child growing up, I remember watching films about runaway trains. What we have is a runaway gravy train. It is time we called a halt to it. Unless we can get the new fees set by the Government implemented immediately, we should call a halt to the current tribunals. Outstanding issues should be referred to commissions of investigation where they will be dealt with much more expeditiously and at a much lower cost.

I have great sympathy for many people who have been brought before the tribunals, some of them for offences for which they have paid dearly financially and in other ways concerning their reputations. After nine or ten years, these issues are still being played out in the media because of the pedantic approach of many of the tribunals. The system needs to be changed and I hope this House will stand united in seeking an immediate change in that regard.

I support Senator White on the general issue she raised. The House should debate planning. I viewed with some concern not just——