Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael)

I support Senator Frances Fitzgerald's call for an urgent debate on the economy, particularly in light of the admission yesterday by the trade unions that social partnership is failing in its current form. Repossessions of family homes are, meanwhile, increasing and last week in this House I called for an urgent debate with the relevant Minister on this issue. I would like such a discussion on how the current failings in the economy are affecting people's lives.

Hundreds of parents waiting for adoptions are still waiting and worried because of a rumour that Ireland has cancelled the bilateral agreement with Vietnam. We still do not know the answer to this question and have heard no truth about it in this House. I understand the Minister of State, Deputy Barry Andrews, is travelling next Sunday to Vietnam. Will the Leader facilitate an update and briefing on his return in this House? We initiated the adoption legislation here and we deserve to have that update on his return.