Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am not in the business of prejudging these matters. All the facts will be disclosed in an hour or so and we will have ample time thereafter to discuss those facts. Two and a quarter hours is more than has been allocated for many years for discussion of the budget proposals. Both the Social Welfare and Pensions Bill and the Finance Bill will come before the House by the middle or end of November, giving more than ample time in the coming weeks to discuss budgetary measures.

Senator Ivana Bacik called for a debate on progress towards the introduction of universal health care. I will bring that matter to the attention of the Minister for Health. The Senator also called for a debate on constitutional reform, with specific reference to the Constitutional Convention. I will try to arrange a debate on proceedings at the convention in early course.

Senator David Norris referred to the forthcoming debate on the Social Welfare and Pensions Bill. I hope to have a discussion in the next week or so with the group leaders in regard to the timing of that debate.

Senator Tom Sheahan referred to certain budgetary measures. As I said, I do not propose to comment on those matters. We must wait and see.

I assure Senator Sean Barrett that I have no intention of guillotining the debate tomorrow on the Taxi Regulation Bill 2012. I note his point regarding the provision of public bus services, which I am sure he will elaborate on in the course of the debate.

Senator Colm Burke outlined the position regarding medical cards. I have already addressed the point regarding timing, as raised by Senators Pat O'Neill and David Cullinane.

Senator Noone called for more women to be appointed to State boards and the boards of private companies. I note the Senator's points in that regard.

Senators Daly and Conway expressed views on the budgetary process. On Senator Daly's contribution, it is the first I have heard that four members could make up a troika. I am glad the Senator is not drawing up the budget.