Joe O'Reilly (Fine Gael)

I second Senator Fitzgerald's proposed amendment to the Order of Business, namely, that we have a special debate on banking today. It is scandalous that ordinary people who face job losses, are experiencing job losses and are experiencing income crises are observing the pensions, bonuses and behaviour of our senior bankers. It is not sustainable. There is a seething anger which needs to be addressed. An urgent debate is required. There is a developing cynicism, anger, frustration and alienation from the whole process of Government among the public because of the Government's unwillingness to confront such people. I support Senator Boyle's proposition that we tax the bonuses and extra large pensions. It is wrong that this situation pertains and it should be stopped immediately. The public expects that.

We can get no level of support. All of us hope for a good outcome from the current ballot on the pay agreement. How can one expect a proper outcome from any ballot while people observe what has gone on recently? It is a great difficulty.

Will the Leader organise a special debate on job creation with a specific emphasis on jobs in the green energy sector? I seek a one day debate on the concept of creating co-operative wind farms using the model of traditional co-operatives, which would be supported by the Government in their creation and which would have access to the national grid. We should also support micro-generators through improved grants and securing good tariffs for those exporting energy. There should be an emphasis on wave energy, which has enormous potential.

In the context of jobs, there remains a huge anxiety in my area and we await a favourable outcome to the awful situation in the Quinn Group.