Joe O'Toole (Independent)

The matter I wish to raise is one I have brought to the Leader's attention previously. The lack of legislative business both last week and this week and for the foreseeable future is worrying for both Houses. I do not point the finger, however, at the Leader, as I am aware of how hard he works to have legislation introduced in this House. However, I do point it at the Government, as there is something wrong in that a raft of legislation has been promised. Last year we were promised that the companies consolidation Bill would be before the House last autumn; we were then told it would be before it this spring, but it has not arrived. The local government consolidation Bill is also long overdue and I do not know where is the Seanad reform Bill. An education patronage Bill and many other Bills have been promised.

When the Leader inquires about this matter, he will be told that the draftspeople are tied up with this, that or the other Department, but the reality is that there is a shortage of draftspeople. Legislation is more important than the Government embargo on recruiting staff. We should focus on the lack of legislation and demand that the Government ensure there are enough draftspeople to deal with pending legislation. We received a list of promised legislation and must deal with it. There will be two legislative measures before the House this week, one courtesy of these benches. There was only one Bill before the House last week. There is also little legislation before the Dáil. As that is not the way we should do our business, I ask the Leader to tackle the issue.

Last week and during the weekend the question of what the Government intended to do on the issue of old age pensions came to the fore. The matter has been handled disgracefully and unfairly, causing unnecessary pain, worry and hardship to those who depend on pensions. The Government should be clear about the issue. It should not have raised it in the public discussion, thus causing sleepless nights for persons who have made their contribution to their families, communities, society and the economy. They deserve better. If the Government intends to do something in this area, it should give a clear indication in order that people can prepare for it.

I would oppose reducing the pension, as would any right thinking person. I, therefore, ask the Leader to bring to the attention of the Government the fact that this course would not reflect the views of elected public representatives. If money must be saved, the Government found ways of doing it last year and can examine other ways this year. However, it is unfair that people who had no hand, act or part in causing the economic mess in which we find ourselves should be forced to bear the burden. The Leader should take this issue on board and ask the Government to give a clear commitment to old age pensioners that they need not worry about this issue for the next seven months.