Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

I support Senator O'Toole's amendment to the Order of Business to discuss the broadcasting levy. It is an unfair levy on independent broadcasters. The level of service local radio stations provide for communities is immeasurable; their services extend into every house and community. It is important, therefore, that the issue be debated at a meeting of Joint Committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources in order that its aspects can be properly teased out before a ministerial order is made.

I request the Leader to arrange a debate on restoring our competitiveness. This is an important aspect in restoring growth in the economy. Chambers Ireland has just produced its yearbook which is entitled, Restoring Competitiveness - Ireland's Priorities for 2010 and beyond. In such a debate we should engage with the unions on all sides in order that we can reflect on the need to restore competitiveness in the economy. Existing structures in State agencies and even Departments were created many decades ago for a different time. They need to be restructured to respond to modern needs to ensure the economy can grow again. We need to protect and create jobs - they should be the key priorities. Restoring our competitiveness is key in that respect. I, therefore, ask the Leader to make provision for a debate on the matter. It would benefit not only this House but the economy in general to engage in a national debate on the need to restore competitiveness.