Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Bacik called for a debate on the situation in Iraq and the EU's response to it. I will endeavour to bring the Tánaiste to the House to discuss that matter.

Senator Barrett referred to the Apple case. The Government is committed to defending and retaining our corporation tax rate at 12.5%.

Senator Michael D'Arcy referred to certain budgetary matters. I will try to bring the relevant Ministers to the House to discuss these matters, particularly those relating to the health services. As Senators know, the Government is responsible under the Constitution to Dáil Éireann, but we certainly will try to arrange those debates.

Senator O'Keeffe saluted the women who attended the dignified and humbling protest which took place yesterday evening outside Leinster House and called for a further debate on mother and baby homes. I thank the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Charles Flanagan, for his statement to the House yesterday regarding the forthcoming inquiry. He gave 45 minutes to the Seanad, which is exactly what he gave to the Dáil, and indicated his willingness to return at a later stage to discuss the issue further with Senators.

Senator Hayden called for a debate on executive pay in the Health Service Executive, which I will try to accommodate.

Senator Healy Eames proposed that No. 13 be taken before No. 1. I am agreeable to that amendment to the Order of Business.