Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

We need to instil confidence among consumers. The Government action on the banks has been very good. Most commentators accept capitalisation will be an issue. The timing of this is important. While Britain is getting much credit for its capitalisation programme, there is a feeling it may have done so too soon. While not an expert in the area, there are differing views on bank capitalisation and it is important we get it right. It is certainly important we debate it and instil some confidence in the public.

I agree we should have a debate on the Equality Authority and the Irish Human Rights Commission. I take a different view, however. Like other Members, I too have been lobbied by people involved in that industry who have made the case for extra funding. No organisation likes to see its funding cut but in this area some organisations, such as Amnesty International, are funded independently of the Exchequer. There is no reason these bodies could not be funded on the same basis. The Oireachtas has a sub-committee on human rights and it is our job to represent all people, including those who are marginalised and disadvantaged. We have a job to do rather than paying boys to do a job for which we are paid.