Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I second the amendment to the Order of Business proposed by Senator Fitzgerald, that we have a debate on the economy with the Minister for Finance present. We also need a debate on public sector reform, which I believe it has been indicated will be granted.

We had a resignation and the right action has been taken in light of the circumstances but the question arises on the corporate governance practices of the board of FÁS. There are other related issues and questions within other agencies. It is disgraceful that this State board, when dealing with the Committee of Public Accounts, blacked out information. How prevalent is that practice? I assume someone else will appear before that committee tomorrow to answer those questions.

The practices within all State agencies and boards need to be looked at urgently. I would like to hear from the Leader on this matter as there many other issues and one does not want to focus on something specific. There are other practices in other agencies which are highly questionable. Accountability has been missing and perhaps the Leader could tell the House what is intended regarding the political accountability of these agencies.