Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I endorse the comments made on many issues raised. Yesterday I touched on the quality of democracy in this country on the Order of Business. Senators Harris and Alex White referred again to this issue earlier. As Senator Harris said, there is no doubt that there are insiders and outsiders and that is the perception, which is a shame. We need a debate on our democracy and on the nature and quality of representatives as a result of the fallout of the George Lee episode. It should also incorporate the stress and strain people are under and whether we are disconnected from them. That is the question but the cant is that politicians look after themselves. The quality of representation has deteriorated because of the media. We are not being given a chance.

This House presents an ideal opportunity to debate all these issues, including those raised by Senator Fitzgerald such as mental health, the disadvantaged and the marginalised. I hate to think that we neglected these people and, therefore, I call for a debate as soon as possible. It is all about how we represent the people. That is why I came into the House and that is what I want to do. I am not one of those who comes in and thinks I can work on my qualifications and that is it. I want to be a public servant and to do what I can for Ireland, which includes helping everybody I can. That is what this Chamber should be about and that is what I want a debate on.

Yesterday, I raised the issue of cosmetic clinics, which have mushroomed all over the Ireland, but the Leader did not respond. I am concerned about how they are operated because they are not covered by legislation or regulation. Will the Leader find time to invite the Minister for Health and Children to the House to outline her proposals to regulate these clinics because I fear for the future? People come to Ireland and perform operations before moving out again with no accountability. I would like the Leader to invite the Minister in to discuss this issue.