Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)

I join Senator O'Toole in welcoming the publication of the new programme for Government. While I welcome the changes in the education sector, they will not make the forthcoming budget deliberations any easier. It is welcome that third level fees will not be contemplated because education will become increasingly important as we navigate the difficult years ahead.

Given that it will be some time before the National Asset Management Agency Bill 2009 comes before the Seanad, it would be useful to hold a debate on the business plan for NAMA which was published yesterday. It is a good plan which offers accountability and transparency but we could contribute to the ongoing preparations for NAMA by further examining it.

I ask the Leader to raise with the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the embargo on promotions within the Garda Síochána. It has come to my attention that issues have arisen in several divisions on foot of retirements in supervisory ranks. While the number of gardaí is adequate, there are insufficient numbers of sergeants, inspectors and superintendents. I ask that the issue be raised with the Minister.