Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Darragh O'Brien and other Senators spoke about consistency in sentencing. I cannot comment on individual cases, despite having strong opinions on the subject, because of the separation of powers but I note there is grave disquiet among the public regarding sentencing and the consistency of sentences over a long period of time. I will try to arrange a debate on that subject with the Minister for Justice and Equality at the earliest opportunity.

Senators Darragh O'Brien, MacSharry, Ó Clochartaigh and Cullinane raised the new initiative in regard to nurses. It is envisaged that up to 1,000 graduate nurses will be recruited for a two year contract on 80% of the starting salary of staff nurses. They will also qualify for premium payment allowances on a pro rata basis, bringing the expected average pay to approximately ¤25,000 per annum, excluding overtime. The initiative offers an opportunity for graduate nurses to obtain valuable experience and additional expertise at a time when opportunities are limited in the public service and the public health service in particular. As part of the graduate programme, nurses will participate in an agreed rotational aspect as will as accessing additional qualifications. I am aware there are many graduates in the private sector who earned master's degrees over four or five years and are earning similar salaries in graduate programmes. There are many cases of people in the private sector earning those wages.

Those who have criticised the initiatives being taken by the Minister will be the first to come to this House and complain, several months from now, if the Minister's budget runs over. I suppose one can have it both ways in opposition. The Senators in question are certainly looking for it both ways in this instance.