Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We cannot debate something that has not been published and put before us but I assure the House that when Professor Higgins's report is published, we will have a debate on it.

Senator Higgins raised the issue of inspections by officials of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister if she provides me with the details she outlined.

Senator Walsh referred to the rights of the family. They are clearly enshrined in the Constitution and will be protected by the Supreme Court.

Senator Mooney raised the issue of corporation tax. The Government has made its position clear on this issue for many years. That remains the position. The issue of companies or individuals not paying sufficient corporation tax could be raised with the Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform when he attends the House later.

Senator Gilroy commented on Bank of Ireland being back in the markets. This is encouraging but it is only a first step and we have a long way to go in that regard.

Senator Cullinane mentioned the march by 15,000 people in Waterford on Saturday last. I was among those who marched. We will have a debate on the hospital groupings as soon as the Higgins report is published.