Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Other measures include streamlining service delivery and reprioritising certain capital expenditure in the future. These measures seek to protect the vulnerable as far as is possible and all Members will agree with that sentiment. They wish to see senior citizens, children and those on lower income levels protected as far as possible. As for the low tax regime in place, one third of all who are in employment in Ireland at present do not pay tax, which is to the great credit of the Government and everyone concerned.

On the Seanad's return in the autumn, I will have no difficulty in facilitating a lengthy debate on the economy, as well as an update at that time. The time for the preparation of Estimates will be at hand and the formulation of the next budget will begin to take place. It will be timely for the Seanad to express its opinion, as Senator Ross stated, and make it meaningful. As for Senator Ross's specific request, I certainly intend to facilitate an all-afternoon debate on Government agencies and on the challenges facing FÁS, which is an agency that will be obliged to answer to the call in respect of retraining and reskilling. As Members are aware, great resources have been allocated to it under the national development plan. A total of 60% of those who are in employment at present will require upskilling or retraining. Members want that to happen and will wish to examine the areas of expertise.

Those Oireachtas joint committees that have an involvement in this field could be of assistance to both Houses of the Oireachtas. They could draw up proposals at their September sittings to bring before both Houses, where they can be discussed, deliberated on or enhanced. As Senator Ross noted, while the social partners have a role to play, the Oireachtas joint committees also have a great role to play. The expertise that is available to the joint committees from the membership of the Oireachtas can take centre stage in assisting the Government, in particular in those areas that have been outlined this morning.

Senators Quinn and Callely highlighted the importance of the in case of emergency, ICE, telephone number concept for the emergency services, which is a very good suggestion. I will pass on Senator Quinn's suggestion to the Taoiseach after the Order of Business as it is something that everyone can easily do. Senator Quinn also stated his strong views in respect of the Ombudsman's report on disability issues. I agree with the Senator in this regard and will pass on his views to the Minister concerned.

Senator Alex White called for a debate on taxation and the Irish position thereon. I have no difficulty with such a debate taking place, possibly in tandem with the debate on the economy, on the return of the Seanad in the autumn. I take Senator Alex White's point to the effect there should be a good news slot, perhaps for a half hour each day on radio and television, as well perhaps as a half page in the daily newspapers, to let the people of Ireland know the truth of the news and what really is happening.