Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

We see again this morning that the uncertainty with the Finance Bill is continuing, especially in the approach some of the Independent Deputies are taking. This highlights the fact that we are in limbo, which I believe every Member agrees is affecting people's lives. The sooner we move out of this state and get on with the general election and have a new Administration the better, as critical decisions are not being taken. Families in negative equity are in dire need of assistance. We need clarity from the banks on how they will approach the significant number of people who are finding life very difficult and concerned about their homes. Families are also facing emigration. Young people are emigrating, as are entire families. Older people are experiencing serious cutbacks in home care packages, with which there is a crisis which has serious effects in communities. The health service remains under severe pressure. There are significant challenges for an incoming Administration, all politicians and communities and we must deal with them with energy and commitment. The sooner the uncertainty in respect of the Finance Bill is removed and these issues are clarified the better. In the meantime, we must get on with whatever work we can do in the final days of this Seanad. There is a good deal of unfinished work, including the referendum on children's rights and the financial implications of the Civil Partnership Act which we are all keen to see dealt with in a finance Bill as soon as possible.