Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

——I would be in favour in of facilitating and accommodating Independent Senators on the motion. A significant amount of legislation, of which I will inform the House later on, is coming before us before us for consideration and that must take precedence.

Senator Mullen has brought the judgment of Mr. Justice Carney to the attention of the House and I will pass his views to the Minister later on this afternoon. I agree with the many of the sentiments he expressed.

Senators McFadden, Glynn and Corrigan gave the House the benefit of their expertise on the issue of mental health and making it a priority. Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy John Moloney, is determined to make an impact in this area. He has been given a special portfolio by the Taoiseach. As one who has worked very closely with him through the years, I have every confidence there will be an opportunity created by the Minister of State's endeavour and determination to see that it happens. I take the point made by Senators McFadden, Glynn and Corrigan that moneys from the sale of property, such as St. Loman's Hospital in Mullingar and other areas, should be prioritised and used for the betterment of those who need assistance and care in the area of mental health.

Senators Phelan and Cummins called for a debate on pensions and pension funds and I could not agree more with the sentiments expressed. It is a difficult time for those who have been paying into pension funds for many years. The bond market is on the ground, the stock market is on its knees and investment is probably at the lowest level in 70 or 80 years. At the end of the day, if one holds one's stocks the wheel will take a turn. As we have learned before on many occasions, particularly over the past 40 years, those who have invested in pension funds have done very well. These are unprecedented times. Those who are now retiring should avail of the opportunity of extended time. I think there is an extended period of two years. Such people do not have any other option in this area. I sympathise with them because everyone looks forward to the day when they will be able to enjoy their retirement. A pension means certainty but at the moment there is no certainty. Senator Cummins has said that it is a difficult time. We, as legislators, must do everything we possibly can to create and keep confidence for those who have made such a significant contribution over the years.

I wish to inform the House of the new legislative programme. The Seanad will play a pivotal role in charting a way forward for our country during these difficult economic times. As well as continuing to meet the challenges of the global economic downturn which has affected our country, the Government is introducing a raw legislative programme until 8 April. Among the Bills to be published during the coming period are the employment agency regulation Bill, the planning and development (amendment) Bill, the financial services (deposit guarantee scheme) Bill, the National Pensions Reserve Fund (amendment) Bill, the child care Bill, the covert surveillance Bill, the criminal justice (money laundering) Bill, the property services regulatory Bill, the criminal procedure Bill, the civil partnership Bill and the road traffic and transport Bill.

Over the coming weeks and months the Government will continue to make progress in introducing legislation aimed at strengthening the laws protecting citizens and the Irish economy. Working in a renewed spirit of co-operation, Members of the Oireachtas can help to put Ireland on a firm footing to sustainable economic renewal and improved social protection. I look forward, under the guidance and stewardship of the Cathaoirleach, to working with all Members to achieve these goals on behalf of the Irish people.