Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

In New Zealand the equivalent of the Seanad was abolished in 1971. It is now being restored because the value of having a second Chamber to act as a watchdog on behalf of the taxpayer is immense. The work we do in this House on all Bills is important. As I have often said on the Order of Business, two years ago we discussed 1,201 amendments to a particular Bill. The second Chamber is a major protector of the taxpayer. We may delay Bills and the process of government, but that is our duty and responsibility under the Constitution. That is why the House was set up in the first place - as an independent voice on behalf of the taxpayer. That is what Seanad Éireann is.

Senators Fitzgerald, O'Toole, Bacik, Boyle, Hannigan, Buttimer, Keaveney and Healy Eames called for an urgent debate on the OECD report on education. I listened attentively as Senator O'Toole gave his view to the House. I understand one of the reasons for the low ratings is that students from non-English-speaking families are now in our schools. Whatever the challenge is, I will have no difficulty in arranging a debate on the issue. I propose to contact the Minister's office after the Order of Business to see if we can come back later this evening after Private Members' business to hear statements from Senators.