Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We spoke on the Bank of Ireland decision last week. It is certainly one for which the bank should answer. Despite some people thinking we do not have a role in the day-to-day management of accounts, the banks should explain and, if possible, reverse this decision. I would also be happy for the Minister to come to the House to discuss the matter concerning insurance which the Senators also raised.

Many Senators raised the matter of the budget this morning. To be fair to Senator Catherine Ardagh, she has been consistent on the importance of the funding and staffing of the DEIS, Delivering Equality of Opportunities in Schools, programme and how it is maintained and retained in some cases. The Minister for Education and Skills, Deputy Bruton, was in the Chamber last week to debate the Action Plan for Education at which time he demonstrated his vision for the Department. Given that our economy is beginning to recover and more people are back at work, I am of the view that we need to examine how DEIS status is granted in respect of the areas in Dublin to which referred to by Senator Catherine Ardagh and a number in my city, Cork. I would be happy to have the Minister return to the House to debate this matter.

Senators Conway-Walsh and Ó Ríordáin referred to class sizes. In yesterday's budget, it was announced 2,400 extra teachers will be hired, a 3.5% increase. Up to 2,500 additional posts in schools will be provided for resource teachers, special needs assistants, as well as the return of career guidance. Up to €160 million will be committed in the whole area of higher education. Education is the pivotal part of how we get our economy moving again. We must invest in education. The supports announced in the budget represent a beginning. Linked to them is the Action Plan for Education and the new action plan for disadvantaged schools, to which Senator Catherine Ardagh referred and which the Minister will announce before the end of the year. There is also junior cycle reform and extra career guidance posts. We have come on a journey. We have haemorrhaged many people from the public services. At least now, we have turned the corner in terms of investment.

The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Zappone, announced a comprehensive package for child care with an investment of up to €1.3 billion. Early years funding has been increased by 35% to €466 million. A new affordable child care scheme will be introduced, along with an increase to the Tusla budget. There is investment in children, education and younger years programmes. Those who question the child care budget should look at the balanced and fair statement issued by the Children's Rights Alliance in respect of it.

Most people on the airwaves this morning discussing the budget spoke about the housing scheme. Senator Ó Domhnaill did not acknowledge the issue of supply. Those of us who hold clinics and engage in canvassing meet people who have an issue with getting into the housing market or being able to obtain local authority housing. We need to start incentivising the market in order to allow people to buy houses rather than competing against one another. I take the Senator's point, however. We may be able to address it with the Minister in the context of the finance Bill. It is important that the benefit of a housing purchase scheme goes to the buyer, not to the seller. I agree with the point about second-hand houses and the Central Bank requirement regarding deposits. There are, however, people who cannot put the money together and we must give them an incentive. There is a home improvement scheme still in place. We are on a journey but it is equally important that we be fair and balanced in how we address the issue.

Senator Ó Ríordáin referred to free GP care for children under 12 years. As Members know, the Government's overarching policy is to have free GP care for children under 12. There are talks under way with GPs regarding contracts.

Senator Catherine Ardagh referred to free dental cleaning and oral hygiene.It is regrettable that we have not seen any movement in regard to the matter. As part of Ms Mary Hanafin's regime as Minister, the option was taken away. It is important that we consider the issue in future years because dental work and oral hygiene is important.

Senator Gallagher raised the important issue of broadband. I am happy to invite the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment to come here for a debate.

Senator Mac Lochlainn raised the issue of cross-Border health initiatives. When I was Chairman of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health and Children, the committee visited the North and we witnessed close co-operation. We can see the close co-operation and link that exists between Altnagelvin Area Hospital and Letterkenny General Hospital in Donegal. We all welcome the cross-Border health initiatives.

Senator Mac Lochlainn made a point about transport, infrastructural developments and projects, a matter also referred to by Senator Feighan. Senator Mac Lochlainn also mentioned the A5 project. I am happy to invite the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to attend here to discuss the matters.

Senator Feighan raised the issue of extending free travel to 18 year olds across Europe. It is an exciting initiative that would afford students or people who have just left school an opportunity to travel and would encourage them to explore.

Senator Colm Burke raised the important issue of what may happen after the presidential election in the United States, particularly in terms of Israel and Palestine. It is critical that President Obama's overseas policy is continued. Senators have differing views on Israel and Palestine. It is important to recognise, as Senators have said, that the Palestinian people should not be subjected to harassment and torture. Whoever occupies the White House has a duty and obligation to the world.

I am unfamiliar with the case raised by Senator Ó Clochartaigh. If what he has said has happened, then it presents a serious issue and, therefore, he should convey it to the Minister.