Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Diarmuid Wilson congratulated Wellman International, which employs approximately 260 people, on providing employment for 40 years. Companies such as Wellman International form the backbone of the economy.

Senator Paschal Mooney referred to the 1979 referendum, under which the franchise in Seanad elections was to be extended to all graduates. Senator Averil Power also raised this issue. The implementation of the referendum result would be welcomed. On the points raised by Senator Mooney, the Oireachtas Library and Research Service has brought together the various reports on Seanad reform as well as the legislation produced by Senators Zappone, Quinn and Crown. People want reform of the House. Having spoken to the Taoiseach, he is anxious to come to the House to address the issue of reform, on which he would welcome all suggestions. I assure Senators that this exchange of views will take place in the near future. I hope that, when the Taoiseach comes before us, they will confine their remarks to the reform agenda that people are correctly anxious to have implemented.

Senator Comiskey referred to the possibility of introducing a VAT refund for the construction industry. We must await the detail of the budget to find out if it contains such a measure.

Senator Wilson described budget days of yore as great occasions in the House. It was easy to have great budget days when the only decision needed was how much money to spend or squander.

Senator Quinn stated the purpose of the budget should be to return competitiveness to the economy. I also note the Senator's point on the problems students are experiencing in finding property to rent. This matter should be addressed.

I will conclude and suspend the House until 4.45 p.m. Having rehearsed the debate on the budget on the Order of Business, we can discuss the facts when we resume.