Darragh O'Brien (Fianna Fail)

Yesterday I specifically requested a debate on the programme for Government, including on its progress and implications. I fully appreciate that the Government has only been in office for a short time, but I wish to raise this matter in the light of the announcement yesterday evening of the 10% arbitrary cut in the numbers of SNA and resource teaching hours, including those previously agreed, across all schools. I do not wish to make a political point, but we should discuss this matter as soon as possible. I am requesting that on Friday, 10 June the House should sit to debate every item in the programme for Government and whatever issues Members of the House wish to raise in this regard. Clarity is required on a number of items in the programme, including the banking, education and health sectors, in particular the fair deal scheme. Yesterday the Leader indicated that he would consider positively the request for such a debate, but it should be held sooner rather than later. I know we have a lot of business to deal with next week, but I propose that we sit on Friday, 10 June to deal specifically with the programme for Government. I ask the Leader to consider this request and if he can accede to it, it will be a good step forward for us.

There is a lot of confusion concerning the proposed household charge and-or water rates. Earlier in the week the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Phil Hogan, announced a household charge would be introduced on 1 January 2012, but no amount was given. The following day the Tánaiste said this would not happen because it was not included in the programme for Government. He said water rates would be introduced but only when water meters were in place. I agree with this. The Taoiseach seemed to back up the Tánaiste, but yesterday the Minister reiterated that a household charge would be introduced on 1 January 2012. I am proposing an amendment to the Order of Business that we ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government to attend the House today to clarify the matter.