Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senators Bradford, Darragh O'Brien and Cullinane raised the issue of Irish Water because its seven-year plan was announced this morning. I am informed that it will be the subject of debate in the right fora, which is the Joint Committee on the Environment, Culture and the Gaeltacht. That a debate will take place in early course.

Senators Darragh O'Brien and Hayden called for a debate on housing. I am trying to arrange a debate with the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Kelly, or the Minister of State, Deputy Coffey. Senator Bacik mentioned that a third graduate of Trinity College has been awarded a Nobel Prize, which was mentioned by Senator Barrett yesterday. Senator Bacik also welcomed the willingness of the Minister for Justice and Equality to accept amendments in the Seanad to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Bill, which passed Second Stage yesterday.

Senator Norris mentioned the "Prime Time" programme on the review of over 300 cases. I viewed the programme and think there is a need for a proper review process to deal with these cases. I also think there should be full access to GSOC files and, indeed, Garda files should be made available to the barristers examining these files. I was astounded to hear full access was not available, which was suggested in the programme. I would be very concerned about that situation and I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister for Justice and Equality. I note the points the Senator made about the J1 visas and the importance of same. I think everybody is aware of the matter.

Senator Colm Burke mentioned the delay in the registration of nurses and the urgent need to address the difficulties in the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland in terms of granting registration. As he rightly pointed out, there is a need to reform the system. I also note the point that €304 million was spent on agency staff in 2014, which, I agree, is a large amount of money. I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister for Health. I know the Senator has already done so through a Commencement debate on the whole question of the registration of nurses, a matter which will have to be addressed in early course.

Senator Leyden called for the deadline for the water conservation grant to be extended. People have all day today to register and, therefore, have plenty of time to do so. However, I will ask the relevant Minister to consider extending the deadline. For many months, people have been advised of the deadline but I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister.