Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

As the House reconvenes, the country faces many challenges. I wish to focus on yesterday's announcement by the Minister for Finance in which he outlined the Government's approach to the banking crisis. When one examines past events, it is clear that the capacity of the powerful in this country to act in private and secret was a major factor in the collapse of the banking system and the damage to the economy. The idea that the investigation into the cause of that collapse should underpin this culture of privacy and secrecy is a damning indictment of the Government which is comprised of Fianna Fáil and the Green Party. When the Leader announced the Order of Business, the very least I would have expected from him was an announcement to the effect that the Seanad would have an opportunity to discuss the inquiry to which I refer. The views of Members should have been sought on this topic today, particularly in view of fact that it is of concern to everyone and has been the subject of continual media coverage in recent days. If we are to restore credibility to the Dáil and Seanad and if we are serious about reform - the House is due to debate a motion on Seanad reform later this evening - we should have an opportunity to discuss this matter today. Even if Members on this side of the House disagree with the way the Government is proceeding, they should at least be given the opportunity to outline their views. In such circumstances, I propose an amendment to the Order of Business to the effect that the House should discuss the banking inquiry today in order that Members might have an opportunity to indicate their views. Those on the Government benches ought to hear what those of us on this side have to say on the establishment of such an inquiry. The Dáil and Seanad are being undermined by the approach being taken by the Government. It is a very serious issue for all of us. At a time when people are so cynical about politics and there is so little faith in politics, it further adds to disillusionment and cynicism which we cannot afford.

I remind the Leader that he has promised a debate on A Vision for Change and mental health services. While the House was in recess the Inspector of Mental Health Services published another report. It is quite clear that A Vision for Change is not being implemented and I ask the Leader to do what he said he would do and have a debate in this House. This week is the fourth anniversary of A Vision for Change and it deserves a proper debate in this House.