Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

If Senators listened to the Order of Business, they would learn what was planned regarding Committee Stage.

On Senator Bacik's contribution, we all welcome the release of Dr. Rafah Nached in Syria. I will continue to endeavour to have the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs come before the House to debate foreign affairs.

On Senator Eamonn Coghlan's contribution, it is my understanding that the Minister for Health, Deputy Reilly, will be present for at least part of the debate in Private Members' time. I am sure we will have a good and robust debate on the very important issue raised in the motion. I compliment Senator Coghlan on tabling the motion.

Senator Power raised the issue of Priory Hall. The Government expressed sympathy with all those who have been caught up in the events at the complex. Dublin City Council has been making good progress in addressing specific individual and family needs. It has placed 37 families free of charge in apartments provided by the National Asset Management Agency close to Priory Hall and secured accommodation for five families courtesy of a voluntary housing association. The council has also agreed to give 57 residents in receipt of rent supplement deposits to secure private rented accommodation as an alternative to hotel accommodation. The Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Hogan, will be in the House for a long time over the next couple of days and I am sure he would be willing to have a chat with Senator Power on this issue if she wishes.

Senator Mullins referred to services for homeless people, which were also raised on the Order of Business yesterday. We all welcome the proposals made by the Minister, Deputy Hogan, on this issue, which I hope they will have the desired effect of helping homeless people on our streets.

To respond to Senator Norris, I am not aware of any Government instruction to Members of the European Parliament regarding Mr. Cardiff's proposed appointment. I will ascertain for the Senator if and when it is intended to introduce a privacy Bill.

Senator Paul Coghlan referred to the question and answer session with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform yesterday. The constant interruption of the Minister was disrespectful. It will be difficult to get the Minister or any of his colleagues to come before the House if they are treated as he was yesterday. Perhaps the reason for yesterday's behaviour was the decision to allow Senators two minutes to ask questions. Some Senators used this time to make statements rather than ask questions. We will have to review the position regarding question and answer sessions, as a number of Senators requested.

We will deal with the pre-budget submission as Senator Cullinane requested.

Senators Healy Eames and Ó Clochartaigh referred to Aviva and the introduction of a code of conduct for companies. The way in which workers are treated is despicable. In many ways, Aviva gave some notice whereas in my own city, Talk Talk gave practically no notice so it is a matter that will have to be addressed by the Minister. Perhaps in the new year we can have another debate on job creation and job initiative measures. We have had a number of debates to date on the issue.

Senator Leyden said he did not use statutory instruments while he was Minister of State. I did not think bus lanes were in being at that stage.