Ivana Bacik (Independent)

We need to know exactly what the connections and relationships were. There is a drip-feed of revelations. Somebody happened to be in Druids Glen and to see that there were more than one or two directors of Anglo Irish Bank present. In fact, there were three directors and an economist present. It is deeply ironic that in 2008 the Taoiseach should have been seeking advice on how to improve the economy from Mr. Sean FitzPatrick, the man whose dealings were to bring it down and lead to the IMF bailout. We need to know the truth about the relationship. I seek a debate on that issue. I, therefore, propose an amendment to the Order of Business in that regard.

I also seek a debate on the continued lifespan of the Government. In the light of the drip-feed of revelations about the Taoiseach's cronies in Anglo Irish Bank, we need to know when the plug will be pulled. Clearly, the Green Party does not have the spine to do it; therefore, I call on Fianna Fáil backbenchers and Senators to pull the plug now. It is outrageous that we will be represented abroad on St. Patrick's Day by members of a Government which has lost all public trust. Now the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Eamon Ryan, has suggested the Opposition should be trotted out too to try to give a fig leaf of public approval and democratic assent to the Government. It is outrageous that it is still in office and that we still do not know when the Oireachtas will be dissolved. The Green Party need have no fear because the Labour Party is committed to introducing climate change legislation. If the Oireachtas is dissolved, we will introduce a stronger Bill than the weak measure before the House today, although I welcome its publication at last, three and a half years too late.

I also seek a debate, if there is still time in the lifespan of this Seanad, on penal policy and the Labour Party document on a fair and effective penal justice system which was launched earlier this week. It sets out coherent and evidence-based proposals for reform of the penal system. It is a matter on which I, Senator Cummins and other Senators have been seeking a debate for some time. We should debate the proposals which the Labour Party has brought forward in its policy document.

Will the Leader provide clarification of the legislative programme? Apparently, a number of Bills are due to be published, but the Bill on female genital mutilation is not included, although the Minister for Health and Children promised me that it would be published. As I understand it is about to be published, can the Leader explain why it is not included in the list? Will he ensure it is included in the list for publication?