Aideen Hayden (Labour) | Oireachtas source

Senator Bacik would make an admirable ambassador to the Holy See given that she is a fair and equitable person in everything she does.

I welcome the statement by the Tánaiste that a banking inquiry will be established as quickly as possible. It appears the inquiry will take place in the next number of months. Like many others, I do not believe the country will move on from the banking collapse until we know exactly what took place at that time. I note the rule of bias will be stringently applied in terms of those who will be eligible to be a member of the inquiry. One could say, "Good luck with that", because there is not one person who has not suffered as a result of the collapse of the banking system. Having said that, this is an important step in the right direction. I reiterate my call to the Leader to arrange a general debate on the banking sector. There is much to discuss in that regard, in particular, the failure of the banks to lend to ordinary citizens. I do not believe the construction sector or business in general will move on until we re-establish a robust banking sector subject to appropriate regulation.

I call again for a debate on fuel poverty, which is an extremely important issue at this time of year. I, like many other people, was shocked recently to see my energy bill for the past two months. This is a very difficult time for people who are struggling and cannot afford to turn on the heating in their homes. The House should debate fuel poverty and the steps the Government is taking to improve the quality of housing and ensure homes are energy efficient. We should also discuss what steps can be taken to make fuel affordable for ordinary people, particularly those who are struggling with their incomes.