Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Fitzgerald, O'Toole, Alex White, Twomey, O'Sullivan, Hanafin, Feeney, Bacik, Regan, Ormonde, Quinn, Harris, Healy Eames, Corrigan, Buttimer and McCarthy were concerned by the events of the past 24 hours. As Leader of the House, I wish George Lee, his wife and their family every success for the future. He tried, did not like it and left.

The question of helping people in terms of mortgage repayments has been outlined to the House today, as have many matters that relate to NAMA. Credit flow for small businesses is an urgent issue. The Finance Bill will be before the House in two weeks' time, but will be on Second Stage in the Dáil today and tomorrow. The Minister will deal with the Bill in the Lower House. It is to be hoped he will attend this House during the last week in February. I will allow additional time to discuss all matters pertaining to NAMA, small business and mortgages, as I stated during an Order of Business debate last week, so as that colleagues can make their views on the Bill known to the Minister during these difficult times.

Last Thursday two weeks ago, we held a long debate on job creation with the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. I was disappointed that it concluded 30 minutes ahead of the allocated time. If more time is needed in the near future, I will endeavour to have the Tánaiste return to the House to discuss the up-to-date position of this serious challenge. The House wants to be updated regularly in this regard and I agree with colleagues' requests.

Senators O'Toole and Quinn referred to the challenge presented by the €4 billion in last year's budget and the €3 billion in each of the budgets for this year and next year. They also discussed the Government, trade unions and social partners getting together again. I understand there is a willingness on all sides that this should occur. If a debate is required, I hope we could have it soon in order that we can plan for what is necessary in the next three budgets.

Senator Alex White inquired as to when by-elections will be held in Donegal and Dublin. As he knows, these are matters for the Taoiseach. I once again wish the Senator well.

Senator Leyden referred to his statements of 9 May 2009 regarding RTE and the drawing up of protocols. I will pass his strong opinions on to the Minister after the Order of Business.

Senators O'Sullivan and Ó Brolcháin called for a debate on the food and drink industry. They also wished the more than 160 products launched in Croke Park today well. This timely launch speaks volumes about the Irish food and drink industry. I strongly suggest that the Green Party avail of the Private Members' time it is due soon to hold this debate.

Senators Norris, Ó Murchú, O'Reilly and Mullen expressed strong opinions on the events of the Lillis case, especially that of the Garda Síochána protecting witnesses in order that they can help in court cases. I support fully the sentiments expressed by colleagues and we should hold a debate on the media's responsibility in this regard. I would have no difficulty in setting time aside.

Senator Hanafin called for a debate on live broadcasting of Seanad proceedings. This matter is before the Joint Administration Committee. I congratulate its new chairman, Deputy Edward O'Keeffe, and wish him well. RTE will appear before the committee at our meeting on Wednesday next week as the first of the three television broadcasters. We will pursue the possibility of live broadcasting of one hour of Seanad Éireann's Order of Business. I will update the House on the committee's deliberations as they continue.

Senator McFadden called for a debate on the Minister for Transport's budget in respect of the issues outlined. The success of a rural bus link in her constituency must be recognised. I will make the request and determine how to arrange the debate.