Aideen Hayden (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I have two questions for the Leader. The first relates to a report today from the Central Bank which found that seven banks have failed to protect customers in mortgage arrears in a number of areas. It is very distressing to read the findings of the report. This matter needs to be taken further on two levels. I would like to hear the Minister for Finance give us his views on the report and what action the Central Bank intends to take. The Office of the Financial Services Ombudsman has been especially lacking in terms of dealing with the worries of those in mortgage arrears and has taken a very limited view of its own remit. I would like this to be brought forward for discussion.

I also wish to mention patients left on trolleys in the accident and emergency department in Beaumont Hospital. The country-specific recommendations for Ireland indicated that we are spending more and getting less for our money. There is a real issue here in terms of patients in accident and emergency departments both in terms of their health and safety and the health and safety of nurses, doctors and other members of staff who work in the sector. Such staff must work in situations where dangerous patients are left in situations where they damage themselves and those who work in the sector. Could I ask for a debate with the Minister for Health on this issue? I would very much like to hear his proposals for the health sector, particularly this issue.

I congratulate one of our former colleagues, Eugene Regan, who has been appointed to the European Court of Justice. He is a former Member of this House and a notable barrister and this House should pass on our congratulations.