Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

We will treat such remarks with the contempt they deserve.

In her comments on the proposal to move to Central European Time, Senator Bacik complimented Senator Quinn. As the Senator mentioned, the relevant committee dealt with the issue. It may be possible to have a debate on that matter in the new year and its implications for business and for all walks of life. We should do that.

I reiterate the Social Welfare Bill will be before the House and we will have a comprehensive debate on it.

The issue of increments was raised, along with the saving of €300 million thereby. The vast majority of increments paid go to lower-paid civil servants at clerical officer grade who have already taken very serious cuts in their wages in recent budgets. The unions stated that increments are part of the pay structure and it would be considered a breach of the Croke Park agreement if they are not paid. That is how the situation stands. I am sure all these points will be raised for consideration for another budget but increments were not touched in this budget.

Senator Ó Murchú spoke about the Minister for Justice, Deputy Shatter, and the closure of Garda stations. The Minister will be in the House practically all day and part of the night on Friday to deal with three different items and Bills. This could provide an opportunity for Senator Ó Murchú to raise these matters with the Minister.

Senator O'Keeffe raised the prohibitive interest rates charged by moneylending and debt resolution companies. At this time of year, many vulnerable people fall into the trap of borrowing this way and, consequently, are in repayment difficulties for years. Legislation should be introduced around these companies, particularly the advertising of their products. It is very true that in many of these cases the advertising looks much better than the product.

Senator Mac Conghail raised the issue of a broader consultation process on legislation against prostitution as promised by the Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch. I will inquire as to how this is coming along and revert to the Senator on it.

Senator Brennan referred to several honorary fellowships awarded at Dundalk Institute of Technology last night and complimented our colleague Senator Quinn on his one.

Senator Quinn raised problems experienced by several high-tech companies located here in recruiting Irish graduates with skills in computer coding. There will be a chance for a debate on this with the Minister for Education and Skills in the new year.

Senator Paul Coghlan and Reilly raised this weekend's EU summit at which serious decisions on the euro will be made. It is imperative a report on this is presented to the House. I will endeavour to have the Minster of State, Deputy Creighton, attend the House next week for statements on the Council meeting.

Senator Burke raised the matters of young doctors leaving the country and nursing qualifications. We can have a debate with the Minister for Health on these matters in the new year. We can also have a debate on the future of the House.

Senator Leyden raised the VAT increase passed last night in the Dáil. It was part of the EU-IMF deal