Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

A serious issue has been raised at the AGSI's conference in Athlone, namely, that there is little support available to gardaí when they take children into care and that there is a lack of social work services on which they may call. The president of the AGSI stated this morning that the Garda should not hand over children in its care to an organisation other than one sponsored by the State, namely, the Health Service Executive. There are serious concerns that contract companies will be brought in to care for children who are needy and vulnerable. I ask that the Leader raise this matter with the HSE and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform because the children in question do not have a voice.

I support Senator Healy Eames's comments regarding the proposed national asset management agency. How was the €30 billion, €50 billion or €90 billion in question spent? Who was responsible for running up these debts and why have they not been brought before the courts? Why are taxpayers being obliged to pay for the completely irresponsible behaviour of these individuals?