Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Donohoe, O'Toole, McCarthy, O'Donovan, Boyle, Norris, Ó Murchú, John Paul Phelan, Dearey, Quinn, McDonald, Bacik, Ó Brolcháin, Hanafin, Coghlan, Coffey and O'Reilly expressed their serious concerns about banking issues. As Members are aware, statements on banking are due to be made immediately after the Order of Business until 2 p.m. It is my intention that the debate will be rolled over and continued after the Easter recess in order that we might monitor progress.

The announcements made yesterday are extremely serious in nature. The country and the Government have been presented with a major challenge. I was a Member of the House when our colleagues on the benches opposite were in power and there was a great deal of activity. At the time a great deal was said about future generations. Ten to 12 years later, however, there was a budget surplus. It is swings and roundabouts with regard to matters such as those under discussion. The circle will be completed. Ultimately, best practice must be observed, which is what is happening in the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland and with the new Financial Regulator. People can feel more confident with regard to transparency and openness. We look forward to assisting the Minister for Finance and the Government in any way possible during this difficult period. I look forward to colleagues' contributions to the debate on banking due to take place following the Order of Business.

Senator Norris requested that Mr. Peter Matthews meet Mr. Alan Dukes. I will endeavour to ensure such a meeting takes place. The Senator's suggestion in this regard is worthwhile. I listened to Mr. Dukes, a former Minister for Finance, on the radio this morning and I am of the opinion that a great deal depends on his past experience. He is again doing the right thing to assist the country.

Senators O'Toole and Dearey referred to matters relating to the insurance industry, Quinn Insurance in particular. The House is due to hear statements tomorrow on the importance of competition in the insurance industry. I will be proposing that the debate also be rolled over until after Easter in order that progress, particularly in respect of the Quinn Group, can be monitored. The Quinn Group has done so much in the context of reform of the industry and assisting in lowering premiums - whether they relate to employer's liability, public liability or commercial, private, motor or health insurance - across the board. The company has been the main driver in making the insurance market in this country competitive. I served as Chairman of the Oireachtas committee which carried out a four and a half year inquiry into the matter and issued three interim reports, as well as a final report. I certainly want to see competition in the marketplace. That last thing we want is for the 5,500 employees of Quinn Insurance in this country and the 1,500 people it employs outside this jurisdiction to be placed under threat. The Quinn Group is a shining example of success. However, what is happening illustrates the depth of the downturn nationally and internationally. Members can take it that the Government will be doing everything possible to assist everyone employed by the Quinn Group. It will also ensure this competitive player remains in the market. I hope the matter will be brought to a successful conclusion.

Senator Dearey also requested a debate on planning. In the light of the forthcoming legislation on planning, such a debate would be extremely timely and I will have no difficulty in allocating time for it.

Senator O'Donovan requested a full debate with the new Minister of State with responsibility for fisheries, Deputy Connick. Again, I will have no difficulty in arranging such a debate, which is long overdue. I will make this a priority following the Easter recess.

Senators Buttimer, Boyle and John Paul Phelan requested a debate on accountability and transparency. I will make time available for such a debate.

Senator Callely called for a debate on the aviation industry and the jobs relating thereto. I have agreed to arrange such a debate which will be facilitated following the Easter recess. The Senator also requested a debate on the up-to-date position on health issues. I have already provided a commitment to the effect that such a debate will take place.

Senators Cummins, McDonald and Coffey all welcomed the reversal of the decision to withdraw the search and rescue service from the south east. Many colleagues, particularly, as Senator McDonald correctly stated, those on the Government side, were involved in ensuring this happened. I refer to Deputies Browne and Kenneally-----