Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on social partnership. Such a debate would be important in the aftermath of last night's decision by the TUI. I concur with Senator O'Toole that it is important for the unions, their members and, in particular, the media to listen to the social partners. They should reflect on and analyse what is at stake. They should give proper and fair commentary on what was agreed at the Croke Park talks last Monday. Everybody is under pressure, especially our workers and our citizens. That is why we need a debate on social partnership. I suggest that social partnership should be extended to include the Houses of the Oireachtas. We should have a meaningful and active engagement with the social partners. The debate I am calling for should be an honest one. I ask the media to be honest, rather than sensational, in its analysis and commentary.

I join Senator Healy Eames in asking for a debate on disability services. The disabled and their families are becoming the forgotten community in society. The promises that were made in 2007 and previously have been forgotten. These people have needs and rights. We have an obligation to look after them, but we are not doing so. As politicians, it behoves us to do so. I want this debate to take place as soon as possible after the Easter recess. If one speaks to representatives of Inclusion Ireland, the Disability Federation of Ireland or any of the other groups, one will be told that the gap is getting bigger. It is a chasm. The Government does not seem to be able to deal with the non-financial aspects of this matter. Senator Healy Eames referred to speech and language services. This debate is urgently needed because people are waiting for assessments and for respite beds.