Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Last night debate's on the possible closure of Army barracks was not the most edifying that I have attended. Both sides of the House will agree on that. There was a feeling that it was not the best way to reflect and represent the views that had been brought to us from the various areas in question. Many of the challenges we face cause a great deal of frustration and part of the frustration is fed by the sense of helplessness we all feel. We had better realise that the helplessness and frustration will permeate many issues inside and outside the House.

One issue worth debating in the House - the Taoiseach should come to the House participate in the debate - is the contribution community organisations make. When there are economic and other pressures or emergencies, the gap is generally filled quickly by these organisations. My home town, Cashel, has 37 community organisations, which cover a wide spectrum of activity, including sport, culture and charity. While many of us are involved in debates and trying to find solutions to the bigger issues, these people are at the coal face and they act urgently and quickly to help in any way they can. The purpose of the debate would be to outline the ways and means we can help these organisations financially and with other resources.

The debate should take place prior to the budget. I suggest the Taoiseach should take part in the debate because he is focused on this issue and because individual Ministers will only deal with one aspect of it. We had a wonderful debate on the arts with the Ministers for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht but we need a broader debate. Given that there are many Departments and agencies involved, the Taoiseach would be the right person to come to the House. This would also send an exceptionally good message. We need positivity and that is the bedrock of community organisations. They do not waste time with negative discussion and looking for scapegoats; they just get on the work. If the debate takes place, I have suggestions on how we can help without putting pressure on the Exchequer. I have another direction on which I could make recommendations that would provide resources but would not the cost the Exchequer. The Leader has been helpful on many occasions and not just to make the House more relevant. That is not the reason I raise this issue. We have a huge powerhouse at our disposal, which reaches into every village, town and city.

I take the comment made by Senator D'Arcy earlier this week. There are some issues about which we should not be partisan and on which there should be unanimity. This is one area where every Member could set an example and instead of feeding frustration, we could come up with answers and use the outlet provided by community organisations. If the Taoiseach could find the time to come to the House, it could lead to something important in these difficult and challenging times.