Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Pressure is not being exerted. I have been inundated with requests to attend meetings on both sides of the argument, but I have replied that I will inform myself on the subject.

Senator Jim D'Arcy referred to the education cuts under Fianna Fáil and called for a debate on the gap analysis report on third level reform. I will try to arrange for one.

Senator Cullinane raised the question of the Fine Gael-Labour coalition. As I stated last week, we do not share Fianna Fáil's belief in temporary little arrangements. We will work to restore our economic sovereignty.

Senator Moran referred to the importance of fostering good relations with communities in Northern Ireland. I also noted her point on epilepsy drugs. The Minister for Health will attend the House a number of times this week to discuss two health Bills. Perhaps the Senator could raise her issues with him then.

Senators Leyden and Kelly mentioned applications for third level grants. As of close of business on 5 December, from 66,827 student grant applications, there were 32,500, or 49%, complete and awarded, provisionally awarded or refused. Some 25,000, or 38%, are awaiting documentation from students. Some 13,024 people have not provided any documentation to date to support applications. We are still on track to ensure all properly completed applications can be processed by the end of the year. Additional staff have been allocated to SUSI and have made a substantial difference. As I stated previously, this is the first year the scheme has been in operation and I hope the teething problems can be solved before next year's grant applications. I am sure all the properly completed grant applications will be expedited and people will have their grants by Christmas.

Senator Coghlan spoke about the savage murder of Pat Finucane. I assure him and other Members who raised the issue that the Taoiseach is consistent on the matter and fully supportive of the family. I am sure he will make the case to the British Prime Minister in early course on the matter.

Senator Higgins commented on the commemoration of the Famine and I will bring the matter to the attention of the relevant Minister, Deputy Deenihan. Senator Ó Clochartaigh asked about inviting the First Minister and Deputy First Minister from the Northern Ireland Executive to the Oireachtas. I have been involved in that process and when we get agreement from both the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, an invitation will issue. There is no question about that, although a certain protocol must be followed. That is the way business is done. I also note the Senator's points on the closure of Garda stations and perhaps we can have a debate on the policing plan in the new year, which was also requested by Senator Noone.

Senator Mullins outlined the positive aspects of the budget, particularly with regard to small and medium enterprises, and he called for further debate on the issue in the new year. Senator Noone raised the issue of below-cost selling of alcohol and the country's relationship with alcohol. I am trying to arrange a debate in the new year on the issue. Senator Healy Eames mentioned the promissory notes. The Government is totally focused on avoiding the next payment of ¤3.1 billion and I am sure we will have news on that in early course. I note her points on the farming sector in her area, and the issue should and will be brought to the attention of the Minister, Deputy Coveney.

Senator Conway spoke about the Revenue Commissioners, stating that mortgage interest relief cannot be given to people who are not paying their mortgage. It has been clarified that relief would and should be given on a pro ratabasis to people paying part of their mortgage. With regard to taxing of wealth, over ¤500 million will be applied in this budget as wealth taxes, including capital gains tax, capital acquisitions tax and deposit interest retention tax.