Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I still think it is crucial. The Leader himself has been clear on the importance of this debate. I agree with him in regard to the issues we have to consider, including the third banking force, our relationship with Europe, the timetable for NAMA and the Government's best projections for the economy for the rest of this year. I would like to debate the figures in the budget, which appear to be on course at this stage. We need these debates in order that people can express confidence in or criticise what is happening.

Given that next week will be three months since the Budget Statement, it would be useful to hold a debate on the budget's very positive forecasts for Government debt at all levels. Are they still positive? The projections for unemployment were also positive. We need a debate on this matter and banking is a crucial part of it. I support the calls made by Senator Twomey for a debate and I would like one to be arranged for today. I am not proposing an amendment to the Order of Business but the Leader needs to deliver on this immediately.