Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senators Ó Domhnaill and Ardagh made reference to the banks. The remarks of the deputy governor of the Central Bank, Ed Sibley, are worth noting with regard to how the banks behave and treat their customers. The point he makes about the hollow promises made and banks being forced by the Central Bank to bring in reform is one on which we should have a debate in the House, and I would be happy to have that debate.

The issue of Cuisle was raised by Senators Devine, Conway, Gallagher, Feighan, Marie-Louise O'Donnell, Bacik, Ó Domhnaill, Davitt and Gallagher. It is a very important issue and one on which the families and service users deserve answers and respect. It is a service that provides support for people with disabilities, allowing them to lead independent lives, and it is one we all want to see resolved. My information, which Members also know, is that there is either a service level agreement or an agreement on Cuisle between the Irish Wheelchair Association and the HSE regarding the purchase of respite breaks. The Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath, has met local representatives and the organisation. It is a matter that deserves to be solved. I understand the concerns of everybody in terms of the adequacy of what is being offered, and I will be happy to try to get the Minister of State, Deputy McGrath, to the House as soon as possible regarding the matter.

Senator Devine and other Senators raised the issue of the language Members use with regard to racism. The points made by Senator Devine about words and facts are very pertinent. It is important that we have a measured debate, that our language is measured and that we do not use inflammatory language to polarise society. I do not find anything wrong with Senator Devine's comments. That debate needs to happen, not just here but in wider society. Those of us who are elected representatives have an obligation to lead and I will be happy to have a debate on the matter.

Senator Norris raised the issue of Seanad scheduling. As Members know and Senator Wilson as a former Government Whip knows, last week I took a decision as Leader to facilitate the holding of an international conference in the Chamber and I stand by that decision. This week, the reason we will not sit on Thursday is because two pieces of legislation were promised, but for a variety of reasons they did not materialise and I was not going to bring Members in on a Thursday for half an hour-----