Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I join others in calling for a debate on the Central Bank report published yesterday. It is extraordinary that a Government that can cut the minimum wage can allow excessive pay, higher remuneration and bonuses to be given to bankers. That is some indictment of the Leader's Government. Senator Ross was right in saying that we should not be shocked or surprised by that. The bank culture and the bad practice in the banks have not changed. We own the banks now. We should be dictating and directing policy and informing them. The Central Bank report did not go far enough; it was far too meek and mild. That is the reason we need to have a debate on it.

I compliment public sector workers who went out in the elements yesterday to make sure that essential public services were available. Public transport was available and hospitals were kept open. Public transport was never more needed in this city than it was yesterday. We do not see the cynics and the critics in here today talking about the great work that was done yesterday. Volunteers also went out to help out throughout the country. It is that kind of spirit that we need to keep alive and that candle of hope, to which Senator O'Reilly rightly referred, that we need to keep lit.

I also call for a debate on the national lottery. I raised a matter on the Adjournment Debate yesterday on where the proceeds of the national lottery go and, to say the least, the reply was disappointing. National lottery sales are increasing. There is money coming into the Exchequer coffers from such sales and the House and the people of Ireland deserve to know where it goes.