Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Hayden called for a debate on the private rental sector, as did Senator Craughwell. I hope to accommodate that debate early in the new year.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh spoke about giving voting rights to members of the diaspora and reducing the voting age to 16 years. His colleague has tabled an amendment to the Order of Business regarding the holding of a referendum on the second matter. I note Senator Ó Clochartaigh's points in this regard.

Senator Keane referred to sexual violence against women. We will have an opportunity to debate that issue when we take Committee Stage of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) (Amendment) Bill 2014 early in the new year.

Senator Cullinane referred to the debate on the Water Services Bill. As I said, there will be ample time for all Members to contribute to the debate and there will be no rush to get the legislation through.

Senator Kelly raised questions regarding a wind farm development in County Cork. I will renew my request for the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Alex White, to come to the House in the new year for a debate on that issue.

Senator Paul Coghlan spoke about the input of the ECB being central to the success of the banking inquiry. The Senator also called for a debate on Northern Ireland. I will arrange that debate early in the new year.

Senator Gilroy referred to homelessness. We had a debate on 3 December which was attended by the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Alan Kelly. We might ask for a progress report on the matter after Christmas. I also note Senator Gilroy's points regarding the Sinn Féin Party and the questions that need to be answered regarding its treatment of Maíria Cahill and the family of Paul Quinn.

Senator Brennan spoke about financial sport for elite sports people and the need for greater participation in sport. There is no doubt that sport plays an important role in Irish society.

Senator White referred to the talks on Northern Ireland. As I said, we will have a debate on this matter early in the new session.

Senator Mullen raised the collection of data from schools in the context of planning and policy. His question about what information the Department of Education and Skills will share with other Departments is a valid one. Perhaps an Adjournment motion would solicit answers from the Minister on that point.