Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator MacSharry was present when I stated yesterday that the Government set up a commission of inquiry, and it is grossly irresponsible of Fianna Fáil to suggest we do anything that might impinge in any way such an inquiry. It is regrettable that the Senator's party continues to play politics with this very serious matter. I suggest the public wants all of us to get on with the job and business of repairing our economy and creating jobs for our people. I note Senator Bacik's points on the same issue and her welcoming of the centenary commemoration for the foundation of Cumann na mBan, which takes place in Glasnevin today.

Senator O'Sullivan spoke about the climate Bill, the heads of which were published last year and discussed by the environment committee. Revised heads are now being drafted for the Government and the Minister hopes to have the Bill published before July. I note the Senator's points on the ex gratia payment to town councillors and I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister so he can clarify the issue for the councillors involved, who have undoubtedly given excellent service to the communities they represented through the years. Senator Conway called for a new corporate governance structure for the boards of companies in the charities sector and I am sure we will get the opportunity to debate the issue in the coming months.

I reject Senator Cullinane's comments regarding the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Shatter. As has been stated, he is one of the most reforming Ministers for justice we have had in many years. Senators Hayden and Mullins spoke of the shortage of housing, particularly in the Dublin area. The Government has taken steps to stimulate the construction sector but I will ask the Minister of State, Deputy Jan O'Sullivan, to provide some commentary on this important area. Senator Ó Domhnaill commented on the paediatric diabetes service in Donegal in particular, and I suggest that the Senator should put down an Adjournment motion in that regard so as to get the required information.

Senators Burke and MacSharry referred to the White Paper on universal health care and particularly the need for forward planning in that sector. I hope we can debate that White Paper in the House. Senator Barrett called for a debate on policing, particularly in light of the recent reports and also that recruitment to the Garda has been restored. I will ask the Minister for Justice and Equality to come here to debate the issue.

In addition to the issue of a housing shortage, Senator Mullins raised the question of the Criminal Assets Bureau in asking whether there is a need to update the legislation at this time. It is a valid point. I also note his comments on Aer Lingus having seven new direct flights to San Francisco. Senator Brennan welcomed the increase in the number of Ryanair routes, and it is hoped they will yield an extra 1.4 million tourists in the country in the coming year.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh referred to the Stratéis 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge and is correct in suggesting the debate on the matter was adjourned. We will resume the debate next Wednesday. I also agree with the Senator's argument that the environmental designation policies have an effect on rural communities, particularly the issue raised by the Senator relating to seaweed. The issue should be subject to debate in the coming months. Senator Leyden advised people to be very careful in giving out any personal information by e-mail, and it is wise to give out such information. He complimented the work of former Garda Commissioner, Martin Callinan, who gave 41 years of good service to the State which should not go unnoticed. We referred to the matter previously.

Senator Coghlan welcomed the appointment of Mr. Justice Nial Fennelly to deal with the commission of investigation and the sale of the loan book by the liquidators of the Irish Bank Resolution Corporation. Senator Comiskey welcomed the jobs announcement for Killybegs, which will give much-needed employment to that area. Senator Naughton spoke about the Court of Criminal Appeal giving sentencing guidelines. In this House we have asked for a review of sentencing guidelines on many issues and this deals with three areas. I hope we will have more guidelines for judges with these serious matters.