Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

We had planned a debate on children, child care and family policies with the Minister, Deputy Fitzgerald, but it needed to be adjourned because of the funeral of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe. When that debate resumes, it could be a good opportunity for the Senator to raise these issues.

Senator Moloney referred to the need for an apology regarding Magdalen institutions. I agree with her. She also referred to the Mangan report, a matter on which we need a debate, as the Minister, Deputy Burton, promised us last year. I agree with Senator Moloney on the need to avoid a rerun of last year's budget. We need a full debate on the issue as soon as possible.

Senator MacSharry raised the issue of the mortgage crisis. He will be aware that the Government has taken steps to address the serious mortgage arrears crisis. The Cabinet committee on mortgage arrears has driven real change, ensuring the most significant change in insolvency laws in more than a century, which was welcomed by us all, the establishment of the Insolvency Service of Ireland, the strengthening of protections for mortgage holders in difficulty and, working directly with the Central Bank and Governor Honohan, the putting in place by banks of additional restructuring options for those in difficulty. The Senator will also be aware that the mortgage-to-rent scheme forms part of the package of measures that the Government has developed to deal with this serious issue. He referred to this scheme. He also referred to some more creative solutions.