Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

That is a general comment on this issue. I am glad to note that the DPP in Northern Ireland has announced a review of the case - that is important - and of any other cases that may arise. Certainly Maíria Cahill in her brave and courageous comments has said there will be others. The Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Joan Burton, has already met Maíria Cahill and others, including Deputy Micheál Martin, have also met her. I am aware the Taoiseach is to meet her this week. Senator Darragh O'Brien asked about the Government response. If the DPP's review in Northern Ireland uncovers issues that have arisen in this jurisdiction, clearly we need to ensure those are investigated here. We might await what further Government response comes forward.

Senator Darragh O'Brien also asked about the Shannon Airport scheme. I have corresponded with many of the individuals who are deeply concerned about the effect. I am aware there are ongoing issues in respect of that matter. On the question of whether there will be amendments to the social welfare Bill, I do not know. I cannot accept the amendment today but I am happy to make further inquiries for the Senator, as I have done already in seeking to respond to those who have corresponded with me on the issue.

Senator Michael D'Arcy raised the issue of cover-ups of child abuse, particularly in the diocese of Ferns. He is right about that. We have seen this happen in other institutions too. He also raised the issue of Irish Water, which I have dealt with, and an issue I had not been aware of, namely, the desecration of W.T. Cosgrave's grave in Inchicore. I am concerned to hear that and, like others, we should all condemn it. I am glad it was condemned from the other side of the House also because the desecration of any grave is an appalling act of vandalism.

Senator van Turnhout raised in a very sensitive manner the concerns about the Maíria Cahill case and asked who people in this jurisdiction should contact. Clearly, Túsla and the Garda would be the appropriate authorities here; and the PSNI and the child support services in Northern Ireland.

I am told that the Children First Bill is still awaiting Committee Stage in the Dáil. I will make inquiries as to whether we can bring that forward, but clearly it cannot come to this House until it has been through the Dáil.
Like Senator van Turnhout, I am concerned to see the criminal law (sex offences) Bill coming forward. I know the Attorney General is looking at a number of outstanding issues but it is a priority Bill for publication. I understand that it is planned to publish it before Christmas. There are a number of issues in that legislation that are or particular interest to many of us in this House, including the issue of criminalising the purchase of sex.
Senator Norris has also raised this issue and disagreed fundamentally with Senator van Turnhout. I would disagree with Senator Norris and wish to put that on the record. I am a supporter of the "Turn Off the Red Light" campaign. I urge Senator Norris or anyone else who has a concern about the proposed criminalisation of purchasing sex to examine the report of the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality, which was adopted unanimously with cross-party support. The committee's report supported and recommended the introduction of new legislation criminalising the purchase of sex in line with the Swedish approach which many of us saw in practice and were impressed by - notwithstanding any survey done by Queen's University, of which I am aware.
Senator Gilroy referred to section 58 of the Mental Health Act. I know the Senator has a long track record of raising mental health issues. I also know that particular provision was controversial in the lifetime of the last Seanad. As the Senator knows, attempts were made to deal with this matter. On 12 November, there will be a debate in this House on suicide and mental health issues. We might try to have a concerted effort to raise that specific issue then as well as raising it directly with the Minister.
Senator MacSharry referred to water charges and I have dealt with the Irish Water issue.
Senator Noone welcomed the announcement by the Lonely Planetguide that Ireland is in the top five destinations to visit in 2015. She specifically mentioned the Wild Atlantic Way and I agree with her that it is a huge boost to the Irish tourism industry to have that sort of endorsement from Lonely Planet. It is hugely welcome. The policy to retain the 9% VAT rate and the development of the Wild Atlantic Way have provided a major boost to tourism and have contributed to the great increase in visitor numbers, which we all welcome.
Senator O'Donnell referred to Irish Water and I have already responded to that issue, as well as the amendment to the Order of Business. I will await her response.
Senator Higgins referred to the sale of a NAMA site on Sir John Rogerson's Quay. There is a comment about this in the Irish Independent today, which I read with concern. I would be happy to seek a debate with the Minister for Finance on current NAMA strategy, which would be useful. It may also be a matter for the Joint Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform if it has not already had NAMA representatives in on that same issue.
Senator Barrett raised banking issues, including some interesting points on Ulster Bank. In particular, he looked at the Central Bank's announcement of its inquiry into rogue banks. He said there were two banking inquiries at once after we have been waiting for so long and asked who would investigate the Central Bank.