Regina Doherty (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

A wide range of topics were raised. Senator Burke talked about his views on the deregulation of the energy market. While I am not sure I fully agree with him, the fact several companies are competing against one another is certainly not giving the consumer better choice. The mind boggles at some of the reports in recent weeks that are an attempt to educate us as to how we could save money. One article says something is a good idea and another says it is bad. It is a minefield, and we probably need a State-sponsored website that would allow consumers to know what is the best offer and when are the best or worst times to be using energy, in simplified language in order that we can learn and do better. At the end of the day, despite the views of some countries and some political parties, putting a cap on energy prices will not make anybody more aware that we are in a security crisis with regard to supply and that we all need to reduce our usage in some way, rather than just change the times of use, although that is important too.

Senator Fitzpatrick asked for a debate on crime in the capital city and particularly on the Government's approach to tackling crime, which I will certainly organise in the coming weeks.

Senators McGreehan and Ward raised the "Scannal" programme that will air tonight on RTÉ regarding the 40 survivors of thalidomide and, as I said last week, the unacceptable response from numerous Governments. We all come in different shapes and colours but we have not covered ourselves in glory in how we have responded as Governments to the 40 survivors, and it is absolutely beyond time we did something.

Senator Seery Kearney asked me to write a letter to the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth with regard to clarification on the 25% reduction in childcare fees for those parenting in a single-income household, which I will do.

Senator Lombard sought a debate on the security of fuel, our reliance on the UK for gas and the effect the shortages might have, not least given that country has put a cap on its bills without necessarily having a programme to encourage people to use less.

Senator Ward asked for a debate on the Special Criminal Court, which I will arrange.

Senator Cummins raised the welcome announcement, among many good announcements last week, of the new regulations with regard to solar panels on our houses, buildings, schools and farm outhouses. It is a fine example of Ireland getting out of its own way to do something we desperately need to do, which is great.

Senator Maria Byrne spoke about carers. We do a lot in the Houses but it is only when we hear such emotive testimony, as was broadcast on the radio in recent days, that we realise how deeply this issue seeps into people's minds. I was mindful when I was listening to the radio the other day that it would take a very brave Minister for Health to take the carer's allowance out of the Department of Social Protection, which gives income support and money only when people do not have any other money, and move it to the Department of Health and value the care they give. Rather than say they will be grand and that we will give it to them if they do not have any money, we should reflect the significant financial value and social contribution that our tens of thousands of carers give in every town, village, city and county. That would be incredibly brave.

Senator Carrigy spoke about school transport, as did Senator Kyne. We have the money now, which is great, but what we need are buses and drivers. Hundreds of people are still waiting for school places.He also welcomed the funding for our sports clubs to help with their increased electricity bills. Senator Keogan made a contribution this morning that to my mind shows how lucky we are have free speech in this country. We need, however, to be really mindful of how we use that freedom and that speech.