Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

What is preventing the rogues from putting up for sale something similar?

Senator Hildegarde Naughton spoke about the new procedures outlined and the reform of government grants. I imagine the matter can be addressed in the debate we will have on democratic reforms.

Senator Michael Mullins remarked on EU anti-trafficking laws and the criminalising of prostitution. This issue could be included in the sexual offences Bill to be brought forward. I will certainly raise it with the Minister.

Senator Lorraine Higgins commented on unscrupulous moneylenders. I gather she is referring to licensed moneylenders and the need to clean up the system. She called for a debate on the matter. It could probably be taken in conjunction with the issue of banking, on which we will try to arrange a debate.

Senator Mullins also requested a debate on banking. He and Senator Paul Coghlan raised the question of mental health and referred to a letter which they and many other colleagues in the House received from Mr. Liam Brazil, a councillor in County Waterford, where I live. At the request of Senator Gilroy, who raised that matter last week, I have already asked that the Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy Kathleen Lynch, come before the House to engage in a debate on mental health. I am in a position to confirm that the Minister of State will be here to discuss mental health on 11 November.

Senator Brennan welcomed the establishment of the British-Irish visa scheme and outlined the benefits that may accrue from it in the context of tourism and business.

Senator Mooney referred to sports capital programme funding. I am sure the Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Ring, will provide details of the new programme when it is being introduced.

The question of e-mail scams, etc., has been raised by Senator Paul Coghlan and others on a number of occasions. The point to the effect that the public should be aware of what is involved with regard to such scams is extremely valid.

On the question of the banks and customer service, I am of the view that the banks are probably more interested in utilising machines rather than having people visit branches and deal with staff. That is unfortunate.