David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I warmly congratulate Senator Barrett. I do not remember an occasion when the Government accepted such significant legislation in the economic sphere from this side of the House. The importance of the Financial Stability and Reform Bill cannot be overestimated. I ask the Leader to ensure it is put on the A list, which is the way forward.

At a human level, I understand that to have people on such a grotesque level of salary as the chairman of the Bank of Ireland confronting people who have been ruined by the malpractice of the bank - many of them bankrupted - at an AGM is profoundly shocking, but it is a diversion. We should not be bothering with that kind of rubbish. The real substance was addressed in yesterday's debate on the Private Members' Bill. What Seanad Éireann did last night is the most positive thing that has been done in recent years in the financial area and that should be recognised. Chasing after individuals is a waste of time. One understands the reasons the public might do so, but there are politicians floating around the place who were egging on those bankers in the same practice and they are now coming out for another diversion with nothing substantial to offer to get us out of it. That is why I applaud Senator Barrett.

I wish to mention two very positive things. This House has a job-shadow initiative which brings people in to see the work of the House. I have here on job shadow with me a distinguished person, Mr. Niall Monahan, the son of an old friend of mine Mr. Ken Monahan, a nephew of James Joyce. I am delighted at the wonderfully positive initiative to plant 1 million trees - not Sitka spruce but broadleaf trees - in one day. I understand you, a Chathaoirligh, and the Ceann Comhairle will be planting at 12.30 p.m.