Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

Ba mhaith liom an Ghaeilge a labhairt, ach níl mórán focail agam. Tá suim agam mo chuid Gaeilge a fheabhsú. Tá mé ag freastal ar rang Gaeilge chun é sin a dhéanamh. I welcome this afternoon's debate on Irish, to which I will listen. I do not have enough confidence to make a contribution, but I hope to be able to do so in future.

The House discussed social partnership and whether the model should change. I do not have enough knowledge to state whether it is faulty, although I wish I had. I do not have the time to go into the subject in enough detail to make such a strong statement. However, I would welcome a brainstorming exercise. The model may or may not be right for the new generation. I would welcome a discussion on how to improve competitiveness and our relationship with the unions and on our salaries, etc. Given the fact that these are aspects of social partnership, it would be a welcome discussion in the Chamber.

I read a report today on upgrading the Planning and Development Act 2000. Doing so before the summer recess would be timely, given the fact that new local councillors will be elected. Completing the preparatory work on updating the development plan, outlining the relationship between the Department and local authorities and organising seminars for new councillors are important matters if the new crop of councillors is to understand the situation. Will the Leader accelerate the arrangements for the debate in the House? The matter of updating the Act has arisen often, but it is now more important than ever that we move on the issue quickly.