Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

There was a far better approach taken to the debate in the Seanad than to the debate in the Dáil.

Senator Daly spoke of water charges and NAMA and I responded. The Senator also spoke of the desecration of the grave of William T. Cosgrave and I appreciate his comments as it is important that we all condemn the desecration of any grave but particularly that of a person who played such a prominent role in Irish history and politics.

Senator Byrne referred to water charges and Northern Ireland. I think he has raised a very important issue on Northern Ireland and I will seek a debate on this because he is correct that there is a crisis of governance there at the moment. Senator Barrett recently raised in this House the need for vigilance to ensure we do not sleepwalk further into crisis. We must take proactive steps but I disagree with Senator Byrne on the approach taken by the Government. I think the Government has made strong interventions but it would be useful to hear in this House what is going on. Senator O'Sullivan also sought a debate on the North and I am happy to seek this. It would be useful to hear from colleagues on the Oireachtas Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement. I served on that committee during the last term of this House and I would like to know how the members see issues in the North. The Minister must come before the House on this issue.