Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am sure the House will be divided in its opinion but I am sure that the majority of Senators will favour the amendment. I will not enter into a debate on it now.

Senator Mac Conghail mentioned philanthropy and asked me to invite two Ministers to attend a debate on it as it would lead to better joined-up thinking. I shall investigate the possibility of having some Ministers here to debate the issue.

Senator Colm Burke mentioned that Teva Pharmaceuticals has announced that it will reduce the cost of generic drugs and that is welcome. The cost reductions announced in recent weeks are welcomed by all.

Senator Kelly and quite a number of Senators mentioned banks and pensions. There is no doubt that it is an issue that the public is rightly upset and angry about. The Government has consistently expressed its abhorrence at the excessive pay and pension levels that exist in the financial sector. As has been stated, it is not possible to reduce pensions for constitutional and legal reasons.