Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Hayden also raised the matter of the housing crisis, as did Senator Ó Clochartaigh. I have requested the Minister of State, Deputy Jan O'Sullivan, to come to the House in January for a comprehensive debate on housing.

Several Senators supported Senator Norris's request to invite Pope Francis to address this House. That matter will come before the Committee on Procedure and Privileges. Pope Francis is a man whose humility and humanity resonates with people all over the world. I would welcome such an invitation although protocol may require it to be a State visit. I am sure this matter will be discussed at length at the Committee on Procedure and Privileges. Senator Norris can be assured of my full support on that matter.

Senator Conway asked for a debate on poverty which other Senators have also sought previously. Senators Conway, Naughton and Mullins complimented the work of the Samaritans in particular. We must support organisations such as the Samaritans who do such wonderful work throughout the country. It would be regrettable if charities and organisations such as the Samaritans and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, were to suffer in any way because of the activities of other charities which are under scrutiny.

Senator Quinn asked for a debate on Seanad reform. I am sure all aspects will be discussed in the new year such as procedures for upgrading Standing Orders if necessary, for example, which the Committee on Procedure and Privileges will debate in the new year. I do not think there is an appetite for another referendum but I agree that aspects of Seanad reform possible under legislation should be investigated.

Senator Higgins asked for a debate on a review of the powers of NAMA and the need for transparency in its procedures.

That takes me on to Senator Daly, who has proposed an amendment to the Order of Business to the effect that No. 17 would be taken before No. 1. This relates to NAMA's transparency. I am agreeable to leave being given to print the Bill. I am acceding to Senator Daly's proposed amendment to the Order of Business.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh called for debates on housing, a matter to which I have referred, and broadband coverage, a matter to which Senator Kelly also referred. They noted the more than €400 million to be invested by Eircom in fibre-optic broadband during the coming year.

Senator Paul Coghlan raised the issue of NAMA. I note his points in that regard.

Senator Mooney discussed the report of the Referendum Commission. I take his point and we may debate the report. Senator Barrett also referred to it and the role of opinion polls. I do not propose to repeat last evening's business.

Senator Crown expressed concerns about the workings of certain hospital boards and an alleged cover-up at his own hospital regarding certain practices. I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister. If the Senator wishes to provide me with paperwork or the like, I will furnish it to the Minister.

Senator Burke referred to the systems of governance in organisations funded by the State and called for greater accountability and a debate on the subject. He has raised this matter three times in recent weeks. I will certainly request the Minister's attendance for a debate.

Senator White raised the issue of the Adoption (Amendment) Bill a number of times, as did Senator Quinn. When doubts were expressed and the Minister was castigated in the House, I always had faith in her and expressed the sentiment that she was doing everything possible to address this matter. It is to be hoped it will be brought to a satisfactory conclusion tomorrow through the Bill's introduction.

In light of Senator Byrne's request, I propose an amendment to the Order of Business to the effect that at 3.15 p.m., we will debate the Appropriation Bill 2013 for 30 minutes. Speaking times will be five minutes for each Senator, with the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, to respond after 25 minutes. We will debate the Bill as requested.