Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Brennan mentioned the significant improvement in tourism figures. The sector is vital for economic recovery. A 9% VAT rate was a major help and the elimination of the travel tax was also a key indicator for increasing tourism numbers.

Senator O'Donovan sought a debate on the future of Cork Airport. I can assure him that his comments were echoed by many Fine Gael representatives who attended a meeting of the Fine Gael party last night. I am sure the same applies to the Labour Party. The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport is well aware of the situation. I will try to arrange another debate with him on the aviation sector.

Senator Keane mentioned the cost savings to be made by Irish Water. As she pointed out, there will be significant savings made at the Ringsend plant and from amalgamating 34 local authorities into one agency to provide water services.

Senator Keane sought a debate on women and economic inequality. I shall try to arrange such a debate with the relevant Minister.

Senator Quinn sought a debate on regional enterprise strategy and cutting red tape. He pointed out the input made by Oireachtas joint committees. I think people forget that committees help, assist and contribute to legislation and the work done by Ministers. Many Members in both Houses do a great deal of work on joint committees which goes unnoticed by people outside of these walls. The Oireachtas Joint Committee on Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation does a tremendous amount of good work. I also note his comments on the work of pharmacies.

Senator Conway referred to the fact that 8% of public servants are receiving family income supplement. I know this is the case as it was highlighted here previously. In the Defence Forces in particular, many members are on family income supplement. I hope the low pay commission will deal with this issue.

Senators Walsh and Mullen called for a debate on housing. There is no doubt that during the boom years, while we had plenty of private housing provided, the building of local authority houses just stopped. That is what happened in the boom.