Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I also welcome the Bahraini delegation and Ms Sheila Dickson from my town to the House. The Seanad has a proud record which I have no doubt the Leader will deal with adequately in response to Senator O'Brien.

On the question of moneylenders, it is high time new legislation was introduced. Will the Leader arrange to have the Minister for Finance before the House in due course? There is no doubt, as has been highlighted, these unscrupulous, heavy-handed individuals should not be allowed to operate. I take it they do not operate within the law and their rates are usurious. This matter must be dealt with urgently.

I agree with Senator Sheahan regarding the pillar banks. I was delighted with the recent report of the Credit Review Office and the credit reviewer, Mr. John Trethowan. There are serious ongoing shortcomings. I acknowledge the Minister for Finance will attend the House in early course but I have called previously for a specific debate on banking. I do not know if that can be taken with the debate for which the Minister will be present but perhaps the Leader will address that.