Ivana Bacik (Independent)

Senator Ó Domhnaill raised the issue of the stability treaty. His comments were echoed by a number of other speakers. We welcome the clarity brought to the stability treaty debate. Following last night's meeting in Brussels, we know there will be no change to the text of the treaty. I agree with the Senator who welcomed the NTMA comments, to which Senator Gilroy referred, pointing out that it would be more difficult for Ireland to obtain money on the bond markets with a "No" vote. That clarity on the consequences of a "No" vote is very important. Many of us hope that will boost the "Yes" side.

Senator Ó Domhnaill raised the issue of the Taoiseach participating in a public debate. He is leading and playing an active role in informing people about the stability treaty and in conducting debates daily in the other House. This is the referendum campaign in which most information has been provided. Therefore, people can be sure about what they are voting for and voting can be carried out in an informed way. It is not about party political point scoring but ensuring people have the necessary information to make an informed vote and ensuring we pass the treaty which will be a positive step in Ireland's road to recovery. The Taoiseach is travelling the length and breadth of the country conveying that message and will continue to do so in the coming days before the vote on Thursday.

Senator Ó Domhnaill also raised the matter of third level fees and the issue of funding for third level education. This is a debate that has been sought on a number of occasions. We will seek a debate with the Minister for Education and Skills on higher education generally, during which we can debate the funding issue and other issues around third level. I will advise the House as soon as it has been scheduled.

Senator Ó Domhnaill moved an amendment to the Order of Business to have the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Richard Bruton, come to the House today in response to the news that Hewlett Packard is reducing its workforce worldwide. Such a request is premature and we cannot facilitate such a debate today. Therefore, I cannot accept the amendment.

I wholeheartedly agree with Senator Paul Coghlan who pointed out the prudence of the measures we are seeking to adopt in the stability treaty. I agree with him in respect of the welcome clarification offered in Brussels last night.

Senator Mac Conghail raised the issue of projected mergers in some cultural and heritage institutions. I agree with the Senator that the proposed mergers would have negative consequences for cultural and heritage institutions. Like the Senator, I was concerned at the announcement today of the resignation of a very eminent professor of history from the board. I have inquired if the Minister for Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Deenihan, will come to the House at an early opportunity and I have been informed a debate with him has been arranged for 7 June, the first week after the referendum. It is a planned debate on commemorations.