Shane Ross (Independent)

In light of what has come from all sides of the House today, we should have a debate on social partnership and whether it has served its use and is relevant any more. Senator Alex White touched on the fact that the Taoiseach will meet the social partners apparently to reveal an economic plan before he reveals it to elected and appointed Members of the Dáil and Seanad. This leaves us continually as spectators. For Senator Butler to state this has happened for years makes it worse. Senator Butler is correct that it has happened for years. We have been spectators in matters of great national importance for years and all sides have accepted it.

There are people outside this House pulling the strings of power. Less than two weeks ago, the Minister for Finance, in an interview on "Morning Ireland", gave a broad hint that the pay increases due to the public sector under the partnership agreement would not be paid next October. Within 24 hours, the Taoiseach, having been in touch, not with his political colleagues, fellow parliamentarians or members of the Cabinet but with trade unionists, decided to undermine his Minister for Finance. There are people who have greater influence than the Minister for Finance on decisions taken about the economy.

What role do the Seanad and Dáil have in this area? It is a serious matter which we should be able to debate. We should admit that we are fast becoming political eunuchs. I notice the Cathaoirleach is restless. I remind him, however, that he gave significant latitude to other speakers.