Jimmy Harte (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I agree with most previous speakers on the tone of the debate on the forthcoming referendum. I refer in particular to posters stating that fewer politicians will be good for the country and will save €20 million. If we do not have respect for ourselves, we cannot expect members of the public to have respect for us. The posters in question should be removed as they are an insult to every current and former Member of Seanad and Dáil Éireann and all those who serve on county and town councils. The implication of the message they portray is that fewer politicians will result in greater democracy. The Arab spring was the result of people seeking to rid their countries of dictators and increase democracy. The West, including Ireland, is encouraging greater democracy in these countries. However, we seem to be doing the opposite in the referendum campaign.

We seem to be putting out a narrative that we are getting rid of more politicians. The end-game there is that only one politician would be left in the country, which would be dangerous.

I ask the Leader to invite the Minister for Justice and Equality to come to the House to explain why on 30 August the Insolvency Service of Ireland advised people it would charge them €500 to apply for a personal insolvency certificate. This did not come through the Houses of the Oireachtas. I spoke to a personal insolvency practitioner yesterday, who advised me that before the process can start the client must pay €500 to the Insolvency Service of Ireland, which is separate from the fees, VAT and any other costs. I have a copy of the document if Members wish to view it. It was signed by the Minister on 30 August. Many people considering personal insolvency are unaware that they must give a cheque for €500 to the Insolvency Service of Ireland before they can progress to the next stage. The Minister should come to the House to explain why this has happened. Deputy Spring will also raise the matter today in the Dáil. It was done during August when we were all away. It was also done under the radar because there have been no media reports on it. This €500 is in addition to the other costs. It was not advised to us or discussed in any forum.