Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

I second Senator Fitzgerald's amendment to the Order of Business. We have a European Council framework on the Lisbon treaty, which the Government sought and obtained. We have a framework on the banks, resolving the banking crisis. It appears we are going to have a framework for resolving the economic crisis. When will we have, however, real decisions which change matters on the ground? I wait to see what will be the real content of this programme the Government is announcing today. Whether it is the banks, the Lisbon treaty or the economy, the Government is intent on frustrating debate in this and the Lower House. It is disrespectful to Members of this House that there has been no debate on the proposed economic recovery plan. It is inappropriate to bypass the Oireachtas on this important issue. When we talk of patriotism and a bipartisan approach, it is clear the Taoiseach has no intention of fostering such an approach to resolving the problems that exist in the country.