Seanad debates

Thursday, 24 March 2011

11:00 am

Photo of Maurice CumminsMaurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I should like to thank all the Members for their kind wishes which are very much appreciated.

Senators Cassidy, O'Toole, Coghlan, Norris, Ellis, Hanafin and Regan spoke about our 12.5% corporation tax and our relations with Europe. The Taoiseach has made it perfectly clear that the 12.5% rate is sacrosanct.

With regard to the renegotiation of the terms of the bailout, it is accepted by everyone that it will not happen overnight. The Taoiseach stated it will be done in a measured way, with the interest of the country paramount. There is a need to rebuild our reputation in Europe. There is a diplomatic offensive under way to inform other countries of the difficulties and the position in this country. Prime Ministers of other countries make rash statements at election times. This is to be expected and statements should be taken in that context. The Government is committed to renegotiating this deal and it will be done in a measured way. There will be no knee-jerk reactions from the Government. Every Member has wished the Government every success in renegotiating the deal.

Senator Boyle proposed an amendment to the Order of Business that we deal with the Mental Health (Involuntary Procedures) (Amendment) Bill for 30 minutes. I am prepared to accept that amendment to the Order Of Business in order that we take the Bill after No. 1. I thank Senator Leyden for withdrawing the amendment he proposed regarding Libya. Senator Norris referred to the Bill introduced by Senator Quinn, which is very important. We will make representations to the Government to have it progress through the other House.

Senators Ó Brolcháin and Dearey referred to the energy and oil crisis and the dangers of nuclear reprocessing. A Minister of State has been appointed with responsibility for the NewERA project. Given the crisis in Japan, it is a matter we must consider and I am sure the Government will give the matter serious consideration in due course.

Senator Glynn raised the matters of knife crime and local government reform. Knife crime is at epidemic proportions at present and I hope the Government will bring in further measures, if necessary, to tackle that. I compliment members of the Garda for their efforts in this regard. They have a difficult task but they are carrying out their duties in an exemplary manner. There is a comprehensive list of proposals for local government reform in the programme for Government and the Government is committed to proceeding with those reforms. Senator Carty referred to the publication of the 1926 census. I will take the matter up and I see no reason it should not be published.

Senator Bacik and other Members referred to the abolition of the Seanad. The Government is committed to comprehensive reforms in many areas and to proposing constitutional amendments. The Government is committed to a constitutional amendment, irrespective of what Senator Mullen stated, on the Seanad and other matters. It is hoped that some will be taken together but they may have to be taken separately. Some of the constitutional amendments proposed in the programme for Government will obviously take some time. Senator Regan referred to Seanad reform.

Regarding Senator Callely's point, it is not a matter for the Leader to decide on a personal statement. It is a matter for the Cathaoirleach and he has ruled on the matter. I understand the question is also under appeal in the courts.

It is a pity Senator O'Brien's question on Ballybay was not submitted as a matter for the Adjournment but it will be taken up and it would also be a worthy Adjournment matter in the other House. Senator Mullen referred to human trafficking and there will be sustained reflection on the matter by the Government, as requested. I can assure the Senator that will happen and I hope for some action on the matter.

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