Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

Senator O'Toole's remarks are pertinent. It is the Minister and senior civil servants who set policy. That is why we need to have a debate to receive clarification and a setting out by each Department of its objectives and targets regarding implementation. That must happen. Reform of the public sector, linked with the Fine Gael document, Reinventing Government, would empower and strengthen workers and Irish society. On this side of the House we recognise that real reform would mean giving people autonomy, a role and authority and a slimmer version of government that all of us should embrace. I, therefore, appeal to the Leader to arrange a debate on the issue.

I join Senator O'Toole in asking for a debate on our First World War veterans - both men and women but predominantly men died - which, as a nation, we should remember. We should acknowledge the sacrifices they made and the impact on their families and Irish society. We are a bold and vibrant nation, despite our economic troubles. It would be a great move by the House, the Government and Irish society if we acknowledged and remembered our dead. As Senator Coghlan noted, former Deputy Paddy Harte has produced a poppy with a shamrock on it. That might be a step in recognising the individuals in question.

I acknowledge Senator Fitzgerald's remarks on the Ombudsman who in her role is independent of the Government. She is an independent officeholder who has produced a report. There must be something about Governments led by Fianna Fáil because they have a problem with the role played by the Ombudsman. Every Fianna Fáil-led Government has had a difficulty with the Ombudsman. Perhaps we should have a debate on the future role of the Ombudsman.