Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

There is no doubt, as speakers have noted, there is considerable ongoing concern regarding expenses. In respect of ministerial expenses, it has been alleged in some quarters that there is a lack of uniformity. There is a question of standards involved which is very important for everybody, especially for the office-holders. How does the role of the Departments and the accounting officers interplay, if at all, with the Oireachtas Commission? I understand the commission has presented proposals to the Minister for Finance. I do not wish to go further into it but there are questions here and perhaps inconsistencies. The Leader might wish to comment briefly on the matter.

Regarding FÁS, to which Senator Fitzgerald referred, I cannot accept and do not believe any of us accept that the Minister is refusing, apparently adamantly, to allow any vetting of people to be appointed. If the people to be appointed are worthy, which I am sure is the intention, there is nothing to fear. They should be prepared to come to a joint committee meeting.

I support what Senator O'Toole said with regard to the House being allowed to discuss the McCarthy report and the report of the Commission on Taxation.

When, if at all, will Committee Stage of the Property Services (Regulation) Bill be taken? There is a growing belief that it is the Government's intention to allow the Bill to go by the wayside with this Parliament, when it falls.