Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Ivana Bacik called for a debate on the focus of the taxation system. Perhaps we might do this early in the new year.

Senator Rónán Mullen commented on the debate on the report of the expert group, to which several Senators have alluded. We will have a two and a half hour debate on the issue this week and if further Senators are offering, we will make more time available at a later stage to continue the debate on the matter. Senator Rónán Mullen commented on the Galway case and the unfortunate death of Ms Savita Halappanavar, but I would prefer to await the results of the investigation before making any comment on it.

Senator Colm Burke raised the question of the focus on safety. He has noted that defective toys are being sold in some outlets and said we should buy from reputable retail outlets. He has pointed to EU law on defective toys.

Senators Ned O'Sullivan, Sean D. Barrett, Martin Conway, Terry Leyden and Feargal Quinn spoke about the restructuring of Shannon Airport. The decision will grant the airport long-awaited freedom to determine its future in its best interests and those of the Shannon region. The decision is to separate the airport from the Dublin Airport Authority, merge it with a new entity which will also include a restructured Shannon Development and its extensive landbank. It represents a new beginning for the Shannon region and involves a drive to develop a world class aviation industry and a restructuring of the tourism and enterprise support agencies in the region to support this goal. Shannon Airport will be made independent of the Dublin Airport Authority and merged with Shannon Development. With the support of the national enterprise, investment and tourism agencies and a new focus on the development of aviation services, it will have a long overdue new beginning. The decision has been welcomed by many. There is no question of not having a level playing field for Ireland West Airport Knock. It is recognised that the decision will result in increased competition among Irish airports, including Knock. However, the aim is to increase the overall number of passengers into the country through increased efficiencies and the attraction of new aviation business which could have a beneficial impact nationally. The decoupling of Shannon Airport from the Dublin Airport Authority will be the subject of a motion in the House next week, most likely on Wednesday.

There will be an opportunity to discuss the matter at that point.

Senator Harte referred to the property tax and the need for a breakdown of where the tax is going and where the money is spent. I imagine that is being examined by local governments and local authorities throughout the country. Certainly, I know it is being examined in Waterford.

Senator Norris commented on the Leveson inquiry. We have held debates on the media in the House but perhaps in the new year as a result of the Leveson inquiry we could have a further debate on the role of the media. Senator Norris also made several other points which can be raised under the statements on the budget tomorrow evening. There will be a two hour debate on the issue.