Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Hayden raised the funerals of the young people who died tragically in Berkeley. Some of the funerals are taking place today and our thoughts are with the parents involved, as they are with those commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Air India flight in which more than 300 people lost their lives.

Senator Hayden also raised the observations of the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights regarding housing and rent controls, and we will try to have the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Alan Kelly, or the Minister of State, Deputy Coffey, here to debate the issue as a matter of urgency. The Senator also called for a debate on EU affairs. Although the Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy Dara Murphy was here approximately two months ago, he would be willing to come in again. I am sure the Minister, Deputy Charles Flanagan, would be willing to come to the House to discuss these matters.

Senator Norris raised matters of security and access in the House. A number of e-mails were sent regarding access to LH2000 in particular and other areas. The Senator should take up the matter with the superintendent if he is having problems. Nobody should have problems accessing their offices and it is not acceptable, if it is the case. Senator Henry raised the proposed public health (alcohol) Bill on the minimum unit pricing of alcohol, stressing the importance of legislation and the desire that it come in before the end of the year. I support her in that regard.

Senators Ó Domhnaill, Ó Murchú, Conway and Craughwell raised the review of local government, which most Members welcome. While I am not sure the restoration of town councils in all their past glory will be acceded to, it is welcome that the Minister is prepared to review the issue. As has been rightly stated, the identity of towns and their councils was very important to these towns and there is a feeling that there has been a loss as a result of the change. There is no doubt about that.

Senators Landy and Ó Murchú spoke on the death of a legendary hurler, Mr. Jimmy Doyle, a gentleman to the core and one of the most skilful hurling players ever. We express our sympathy to his family and county. We will all grieve his passing.

Senator Barrett raised the new levy on house construction which is pushing up prices and the fact that local authorities have not taken up offers from NAMA regarding ghost estates in some cases. The Minister has said he will address the levies on construction in early course. Perhaps we could have the Minister, Deputy Coffey, here to speak to us on the matter. On numerous occasions, the Senator has raised points regarding postal codes, and we will discuss the relevant Bill here on Thursday. Senator Brennan spoke about a local scheme in Dundalk to encourage people to shop locally. He also stressed the importance of CPR, which was addressed in the House last week.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh spoke about the report of the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Getting people back to work is the best means of eliminating poverty. Increased taxation into the Exchequer will provide more and better services for people in need. The Government's main policy is to get people back to work, and increase the services and provide the services that are necessary rather than taxing people out of existence, which is what Sinn Féin would do if in power.