Ivor Callely (Independent)

It is regrettable that we are at this stage in the programme. The country is probably at the most critical stage in its history. The previous speaker mentioned one particular Bill passing through this Chamber but there are many other issues that require the attention of politicians at the moment. I refer to the thousands of commuters and hundreds of people employed in Aer Lingus. That issue must be resolved. Many other issues arise, such as the increase in suicide, whether NAMA is working, the financial implications in every parish and the difficulties in sustaining employment. So many issues warrant attention.

On the positive side there have been innovative developments. There is light at the end of the tunnel. There is growth in our exports. I am not too sure what role the Seanad will play in the coming weeks. Certain statutory obligations arise as to how many days the Seanad can sit once a general election has been called. My colleague, Senator Hanafin, called for a full debate. Because we are at a critical stage in the history of our country, is it possible that the Leader could explore the feasibility of inviting the leaders of each political party to set out their stall in terms of their manifesto to the nation? As the previous speaker, Senator Harris, indicated, the next Government is likely to be a rainbow coalition. Is it possible that those parties would set out their joint programme for government and cost it so the public would know prior to voting exactly what they are voting for——