Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Coimisinéir Teanga is standing down. As I said yesterday, a new commissioner should be put in place, as a matter of urgency, in order to replace the commissioner who is stepping down. I am sure that the Government will act, as a matter of urgency.

Senators O'Donovan and Ó Domhnaill mentioned fishing quotas. The Minister has said here that very difficult negotiations will take place in the next week or so. It is a bit much to request that the goalposts be changed after 40 years. It is asking a lot from a Minister when, as he said, successive governments did not act on the matter. I am sure that the Minister will, as he did last year, negotiate the best possible deal for Irish fishermen. He was complimented on last year's quota negotiations. He emphasised here that this year's negotiations will be a lot more challenging.

Senator Colm Burke sought a debate on the HSE budget and the fact that 25% goes to agencies outside of the HSE. I hope to debate the matter when we debate the HSE service plan early in the new year.

Senator Quinn mentioned that HIQA will examine best practice for defibrillators which is welcome. He also mentioned the decision by Malta to sell passports which a worrying. I am sure that the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is aware of the matter but I shall bring it to the attention of the Tánaiste.

Senator O'Keeffe mentioned the report on safeguarding children. The matter was dealt with yesterday. A number of Senators have raised the matter and we will continue to debate it, as we have done so over the past 12 months.

Senator MacSharry mentioned the qualifying criteria for parliamentary allowances and the audit system. Many of the matters were raised with the Minister during the passage of legislation but I shall continue to make representations to him.

Senator Michael Mullins and other Senators referred to the meeting between the Committee of Public Accounts and the CRC. Without doubt, the revelations have done untold damage to the charity sector. There is a need to restore confidence in the sector, particularly in the many worthy charities that have been badly hit by the revelations. We should wait for the committee to compile its report. Yesterday we heard that €660,000 was paid to the Mater to maintain a pension fund that did not exist. It is mind-boggling to think that can happen. Let us wait for the committee's report. I understand the concerns about the impact the revelations have on other charities. It is important that people continue to give to the many worthy charities. Senators Bradford and Noone also mentioned the CRC.

Senator Mulcahy complimented Ryanair on its Santa project that will bring 4,000 children on flights. I shall finish on that good note.