Darragh O'Brien (Fianna Fail)

Given that we had to conclude business early yesterday, I ask the Cathaoirleach to indulge me.

I understand this is the first time this has happened and I want a commitment from the Leader that it will not happen again. It shows utter disregard for all Senators, especially the Fianna Fáil Party group, nine of whose 14 members contributed in detail yesterday on the fiscal compact. My party contributes to debates and we were ready to contribute on our Private Members' motion yesterday before it was pulled. That is not acceptable.

On the comments of the Governor of the Central Bank, he has raised the flag for the banks and allowed them open season to proceed with the repossession of thousands of properties in the investment sector. Does he realise the 400,000 people who own second properties are not property developers or the wealthy but individuals who invested in properties as a form of pension scheme? I would like the Governor to be much more forthright in calling on the Government to act on the Keane report and the 140,000 mortgages - he referred to a figure of 107,000 - on principal private residences which are in arrears. Until we are given cast iron guarantees on ministerial attendance in the Chamber and until the House functions properly again, my party will oppose every Order of Business and every measure the Government proposes.