Joe O'Toole (Independent)

The Green Party has a clear opportunity to examine how the Seanad can prove helpful and be supportive of national initiatives and ensure the party's business is placed on the agenda and addressed.

Although I have raised the next budgetary matter before, it is important that I have my comments recorded. The cut in the national minimum wage was not demanded by IBEC, the Competition Authority or Mr. Chopra and it was not a condition in getting money from the European Union. As there was no demand for the cut to be made, I ask the Government to reconsider. Among all politicians, there is a significant sense of embarrassment at the idea that we are still here while certain cutbacks are being made. Of all cuts, the one affecting blind people is the most difficult to take.