Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

I understand Senator Callely will make a statement to the House this morning on the controversy surrounding his expenses. Members sought such a statement yesterday and expressed serious concerns regarding the media reports on his expenses. As I will not be provided with an opportunity to respond to his statement later, I note it should be thorough and comprehensive and address all the issues of concern. The Cathaoirleach will agree that Members cannot afford a continuation of this controversy and that trust and faith in politics must be restored. I also expect that details of the written statement the Taoiseach has requested of Senator Callely will be made available to this House. People seek leadership at this difficult time of political and economic uncertainty. They seek a jobs plan and a proper banking plan. They demand proper child care services and support for elderly people in the community. These issues and topics which affect people's lives so seriously are those which Members should address seriously in this House and on which they should seek action. I will reserve further comment on Senator Callely's statement until later but I wanted to make clear these points because I understand Members will not be in a position to respond immediately in this Chamber.

On a different issue, I seek a debate in this House on the highly disturbing reports that appeared today regarding Israel, Irish passport holders and the apparent illegal use of their passports. I am sure the Minister for Foreign Affairs will address this matter tonight, which is a very important issue for this House to debate. Second, Members must discuss the cuts in higher education and the information that came to light today on courses and jobs in the higher education sector. I ask the Leader to arrange for a debate on that topic. While there is much discussion on the smart economy, education cuts at higher level will make it highly difficult to make economic progress.