John Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

I call on the Leader to arrange a debate on ways by which we can improve the position on employment. In the 1980s we had many allowances and schemes that provided for tax reliefs for those who invested in job creation. I raise this issue in the light of the good news yesterday from Davy which stated there had been growth in the economy in the first quarter of the year. That is very positive, but it was also stated it would take six months for the unemployment rate to peak, something we could deal with straightaway.

I share Senator O'Toole's view that the Quinn Group workers need representation. In this life one gets that for which one negotiates. Even though they are not trade union members, I hope a union will step in and assist them in their hour of need.

I support Senator Mooney's proposal. As a member of the Joint Committee on European Scrutiny, I can see no better forum than the Seanad to deal with European scrutinty issues. We are elected by a broad panel. We also have the university panels and the 11 Senators nominated by the Taoiseach. The panels represent all areas of interest in the community, which gives us the right to represent the Oireachtas in this crucially important area.