Tony Mulcahy (Fine Gael)

I agree with Senator Byrne regarding senior managers in the organisations in question. They should be removed. In the past three or four years, every business has needed to contract and tighten up its activities. Unfortunately, I have needed to lay off many staff. The days of underwriting and subsidising loss-making businesses and organisations are long gone. I include the banks in this. It is regrettable, but we would have a more efficient banking system if we tackled large issues like this head on. I am prepared to support that initiative.

The issue I wish to raise relates to the Minister for Social Protection. Rent supplement has been set at a rate at which people can no longer afford to avail of housing, particularly in urban areas. Setting a rate of €475 for a house in a small rural parish in County Clare might work, but one would not get a house for two adults and two children for €475 per month in the towns of Shannon and Ennis. Will the Leader ask the Minister to review the rent subsidies payable in urban areas? We will not be building new council houses and the supply of social housing is scarce across the country. At times like this, we need to do everything in our power to facilitate young couples. A rate of €475 is ridiculous. I could cite a list of counties. I am sure the situation in County Waterford is the same, as Senator Cullinane would agree. We must review the rate.