Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will certainly bring the matter to the attention of the Minister for Finance. Senator Leyden referred to the Central Bank of Ireland. As he knows, the Central Bank of Ireland is independent of Government. In regard to Ms Lagarde, I think she answered the questions she was asked directly and in a very forthright manner.

Senator Mullins referred to the regional spread for jobs and called for a debate on regional grants. I would agree with him in that regard. The IDA is at last, and not before time, concentrating on the whole regional balance where jobs are concerned. I am happy that the IDA has reappointed a director for the south east, which it removed in 1996. We wish the lady very well in her endeavours because the south east has suffered more than most areas during the recession. Senator Mullins also raised the matter of out-of-pocket expenses for people serving on juries, which is a very valid point. Perhaps a commencement debate with the Minister could be suggested in that regard. Many people who serve on juries are really penalised financially by their service on them.

Senator Craughwell referred to the commission on Seanad reform and reminded people that there are only a number of days left for submissions. He referred to the membership of boards of management and restriction of 20 km, which is ludicrous suggestion. Some 20 km is far too short and it will prevent good people from becoming members of boards of management. I am sure the points the Senator wishes to raise in regard to water meters can be raised during the Private Members' debate this evening.

I have commented on the issue raised by Senator Whelan, namely, libraries, which Senators Kelly, Landy, Heffernan and others also raised. I agree with Senator Whelan and hope to arrange for the Minister to attend to discuss the matter.
Senator Heffernan raised a point that was also raised yesterday, namely, the dumping of toxic sludge and diesel laundering in Border counties. He pinned it directly on the Provisional IRA and suggested that it still ruled the roost through intimidation. I praise the journalist, Mr. Jim Cusack, who raised this matter in the Sunday Independent. It must be addressed. I note Senator Wilson's point about how, although the Garda and Customs and Excise on this side of the Border are active, there is a suggestion that their counterparts on the other side are not as active for whatever reason. I am sure that this matter will be addressed in many fora in the coming months, including the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly. I am sure it will also be discussed by the relevant Ministers, as it is not just a serious matter for the counties involved but for the country and its economy. The amount of money that is involved is large.
Senator Colm Burke called for a debate on home care and the need for proper structures and training. He has drafted a Bill, which I hope will be before the House during this term for a comprehensive debate.
Senators Healy Eames and Wilson referred to the reform of the junior certificate. Each had a different opinion on how that should be done. It is regrettable that there will be a further strike, as it poses a major inconvenience to families, pupils and all involved. Further negotiation is necessary and I hope it will be facilitated.
Senator Healy Eames also asked for a timetable for the children and family relationships Bill. We will try to ascertain when the Bill will be before the House or whether it will commence in this Chamber.
Senator Hayden discussed mortgage loan caps and access to home ownership. The latter is a critical issue. I hope that we can have it addressed in the coming weeks.
Senator Reilly mentioned the referendum on reducing the voting age to 16 years. The Government has decided that it will not be held during the Government's term of office, but I am sure it will be discussed and kept on the agenda. There are different points of view on whether 16 year olds should have voting rights, but we will try to facilitate a debate later in the term.
Senator Kelly made points about competition in the banking sector as well as the issue of library and fire services.
Senator Conway referred to regional registers of protected structures and called on the Minister of State, Deputy Harris, to attend the House. I suggest that this could be a good subject matter for a Commencement debate. Perhaps the Senator could table such a motion.