Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

We would all wish there was no need for this legislation but, on behalf of the Government, I express appreciation for the support offered by all sides of the Houses of the Oireachtas in the national interest. We are an example to our country, to Europe and to the world and I hope the rest of the world takes heed of this initiative by Government to assist families who have for generations created employment. This is the template on which the recovery of the global economy can be built.

It is my intention to propose on next Wednesday's Order of Business that we devote part or most of that day to a debate on banking. I also propose that the Seanad should act as the watchdog for activities pertaining to banks in this country for as long as is required.

In 1992, I worked closely with Senator O'Toole and the former Senator, Dr. Maurice Manning, to address the appalling circumstances in which families of former Members found themselves. One Member who had served for eight and a half months had a good managerial job but found himself on the dole queue. These circumstances would not be acceptable in any other walk of life, so why should they be accepted in the Oireachtas? We are fortunate to have someone with the experience of Senator O'Toole who can assist the Oireachtas in getting fair play for the families we represent. These families do not work 40 hours per week in serving their communities, they work 100 hours or more. In particular, our wives and partners spend 18 hours per day on the telephone on behalf of the people of Ireland. Their commitment is difficult to find in any other industry and I assure the House that our goal will be to bring Senators who served in 1960 to parity with the standards of pay and remuneration of those who will serve in 2010.

Senators McCarthy, MacSharry and Buttimer sought an urgent debate on BreastCheck and the alarming issues they raised. I will endeavour to arrange such a debate for the near future.

Senators MacSharry and Donohoe made a timely call for a debate on local government funding. Given that budget day is approaching, I will discuss the matter with party leaders with a view to finding time for a debate.

Senator Norris called for an urgent debate on the Middle East. I can arrange time for that. Senator Kelly requested that I inquire into the Teamwork report on the HSE. I will make inquiries on the matter this afternoon.