Seanad debates
Thursday, 14 February 2013
Order of Business
10:30 am
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Order of Business is No. 1, statements on the promissory note arrangement, to be taken at 11.45 a.m. and to conclude no later than 1 p.m., with the contribution of spokespersons not to exceed five minutes, all other Senators not to exceed three minutes, and the Minister to be called on to reply to the debate no later than 12.55 p.m.; and No. 2, Defence Forces (Second World War Amnesty and Immunity) Bill 2012, Committee and Remaining Stages, to be taken at 1 p.m.
Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I am afraid I must continue with a similar theme to that aired in recent days in the House. As Members will be aware, the Government yesterday published the Finance (Local Property Tax) (Amendment) Bill 2013. While I have been stating in recent days that the banks are in denial in the context of dealing with real people's problems, it appears as though the Government is in denial on this issue. Far from the quotations of last September, when the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy Gilmore, spoke of a tax that would be affordable for families, the Minister of State, Deputy Creighton, has complained that people should not be punished for their addresses but that square footage and ability to pay should be taken into account. Fine Gael's general election manifesto claimed "an annual, recurring residential property tax ... is unfair". However, in a move that is far removed from that and which missed the opportunity that presented itself with the aforementioned amendment Bill, for which Senator Byrne rightly called in his statement yesterday, there is further exacerbation of the problem for the 29% of mortgages that are in arrears, for the huge level of unemployment that obtains throughout the country and for the 50% of mortgages that are in negative equity. This measure is not affordable for families and is not linked to ability to pay. This is a tax on everyone in the country and by the Taoiseach's own admission, it will hit middle Ireland most, that is, those who increasingly are being asked to cough up repeatedly. I refer to a couple with two children who, by the end of this year will lose ¤240 in child benefit, will pay more than ¤500 between them in PRSI tax and now, on average, will pay between ¤300 and ¤500 a year on a property tax that is downright discriminatory. What was wrong with suggestions to impose an additional 3% tax on those with an income of more than ¤100,000, who frankly, were conditioned for such a hit in the budget? However, as Fine Gael would not have that, the Labour Party was obliged to swallow it. That is wrong. What is wrong with a tax on off-licence sales regarding the cheapest alcohol that is leading to so many difficulties nationwide? These two measures would bring in the same amount of money.
It is not the principle of having to pay a property tax. Of course that is just in normal conditions, but we are far from normal trading conditions.
Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
What we need is common sense at this time. When we are best placed to sustain this kind of contribution we will make it, but until then the people are entitled to the support of the Government and they are not getting it.
I thank you for your indulgence, a Chathaoirligh, in raising a second issue. Yesterday, following the efforts ? a little late ? in making it a European issue, the horsemeat crisis moved to a different stage. I commend, albeit belatedly, the efforts of the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Deputy Coveney, in this regard. As I said on RTE last night, I am pleased to see the media today are echoing the calls, the European Union has abdicated its responsibilities in the context of the crisis. Commissioner Borg has said this is not a food safety issue and therefore the Commission is not concerned and not triggering its normal reaction to the labelling crisis. That is fundamentally wrong. There are flaws throughout the country. Frankly, I have confidence in this country and the systems we employ in post-beef tribunal Ireland in this context. We have a systemic failure Europe-wide and unless mandatory testing is introduced and enforced by European authorities with clear penalties for those who do not do it, the consumer, who is the person that counts most in the crisis, cannot be served correctly and it might adversely affect our farming industry and European agriculture, in particular at a time when we are about to embark on serious negotiations for free trade between the United States and Europe.
Ivana Bacik (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I welcome the fact that we will have a debate today on the promissory notes. It is important that we would have an opportunity shortly after the deal was made last week to debate the issue and provide time for all Members to contribute. There was near-unanimous welcome for the deal that was done as it provides for cheaper financing of the debt over a longer period, which is welcome.
I also welcome the fact that this weekend we will have the second session of the Constitutional Convention. Colleagues on both sides will be represented at it. This weekend we will debate a number of references in the Constitution to the place of women in the home and the duties of mothers in the home. They are highly outdated provisions which are long overdue for replacement. A whole series of different expert group reports over the years have recommended their deletion and-or replacement with provisions that recognise in a gender-neutral way the important role of carers in the home and the community. It will be great to have an opportunity to debate it this weekend.
We will also debate measures to improve the participation of women in politics and in that context we have already passed legislation, which started in this House, to go about improving the number of women candidates in the next general election. That is very welcome also.
I note that yesterday there were leaks in the Evening Herald, which have been repeated in today?s newspapers, of the report into the tragic death of Savita Halappanavar in Galway University Hospital last November. The reports indicate that the account given by Savita?s husband, Praveen, has been vindicated and that serious errors were made in the treatment of Savita Halappanavar and, in particular, that undue delays occurred in providing her with the treatment she needed to save her life. We will be able to debate the legislation the Government has promised, which is welcome, on foot of the expert group report. We have debated the expert group report but I hope we will have the debate on the legislation in early course and that we will be able to review some of the reports into the death of Savita at the time.
Katherine Zappone (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I have three questions for the Leader. Earlier this week I had the pleasure of launching a report on the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, LGBT, parents in this country. As outlined in the report, there are children around the country being raised within such families but, unfortunately, the report demonstrates that 46% of participants have experienced discrimination as LGBT parents. Their overriding concern relates to the legal vulnerability they face. Many of them do not have legal relationships with the children they are raising within the context of a loving family. Legislative gaps exist. The Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Shatter, has indicated that he intends to address some of the gaps. I ask the Leader to invite the Minister to come to the House for a debate on wider issues relating to LGBT families and the lack of legal protections afforded to them.
My second question also involves human rights. It is on the proposed merger between the Equality Authority and the Irish Human Rights Commission. We would all agree that the recent publication of the report on Magdalen laundries reminds us that watchdogs must monitor and oversee the actions of the State in regard to human rights. Currently, neither the Irish Human Rights Commission nor the Equality Authority have a board. We have the heads of a Bill. I ask the Leader to ask the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Shatter, when he expects the publication of the full text of the Bill.
My third and final question is one I must raise in light of the recent analysis of the Central Statistics Office statistics on poverty. Our people are poor and the numbers are going up. There are 733,000 of them, including 272,000 children. Who should we invite to the House to debate the matter? Should we invite the Taoiseach? Should we ask for the Tánaiste? Should we ask either of the Ministers with responsibility for finance? There is no strategy to combat poverty in this country anymore. To say that increasing jobs is the strategy is too simplistic. I accept more jobs will help but so much more is needed in order to get people to be job-ready. We need a whole-of-government response and a cross-party plan to get rid of poverty once and for all. Why does the Seanad not come up with a plan? How about a cross-party Seanad plan to stop people from being poor? I call on Senator Cummins, Senator Bacik, Senator MacSharry or Senator Darragh O?Brien and the Independent Senators to put aside our politics and do that?
Sean Barrett (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
In the interests of jobs, to which Senator MacSharry referred, and poverty alleviation, as Senator Zappone has just mentioned, some important events took place this week. On Friday last the European Council declared itself in favour of free trade between the European Union and the United States and it was endorsed in a state-of-the-union address by President Obama. The Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Bruton, estimated that such a free-trade area would be worth ¤150 billion a year and ¤100 million of it would accrue to this country. It might be more because this country has stronger connections with the United States than most countries, both in terms of the investment and our share of exports. This is an opportunity for us because on St. Patrick?s Day, the Taoiseach, as President of Europe, will be in Washington and he will meet with President Obama. It is a chance to move the project forward. We should not let it be slowed down by the bureaucrats, as Senator Crown?s proposal on smoking has been killed by them. I suggested yesterday that the Minister of State with responsibility for research might walk from Kildare Street to Dawson Street to meet the Royal Irish Academy. The bureaucrats will kill this country if we let them get hold of this project. Let us set a target that on St. Patrick?s Day the President of Europe and the President of the United States will announce that a third of the tariff barriers will be gone by the end of the year and half of them in 18 months. Then we could meet President Obama?s target to press on with the project.
Parliament must get radical. We are being slowed down by the permanent government all the time. This is a chance for President Obama and the Taoiseach, Deputy Kenny, as President of Europe, to have free trade between the United States and Europe. Let us go for it and rule out the delaying tactics and obstacles which will be put in the way of a worthwhile project to generate growth in the economy. If it would help the Taoiseach to have a debate in this House perhaps the Leader could arrange it. In any case I call on him to communicate the impatience of elected parliamentarians that we do something radical to address the problem of endemic unemployment throughout Europe and take up the offer made by President Obama in his state-of-the-union address. Let us have a third of the tariff and non-tariff barriers gone this year and half of them gone within 18 months. President Obama said that within his term there will be free trade between the EU and the United States. We must avail of Ireland?s unique role to push that because of our splendid relationship with so many successive US Presidents.
Caít Keane (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I wish to return to what I spoke about in my maiden speech in the Seanad, namely, Senator Bacik?s Bill on female genital mutilation. An international survey was published yesterday, the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation. I was amazed when I read the report. The survey was commissioned by the women's rights group. I do not know how to properly pronounce the African name.
Caít Keane (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It is a Swahili name. The survey found that Irish GPs do not recognise types of female genital mutilation or, worse still, they do not know where to refer their victims for care. A total of 218 questionnaires were sent out randomly to selected GPs.
It is estimated more than 3,170 migrant women living in Ireland are victims of the practice. A total of 218 questionnaires were sent out to GPs and 64 responded, indicating that 98% had heard of female genital mutilation, 79% did not know how to identify it and 65% said they were unable to identify the symptoms. When a person goes for health care the least he or she should expect is that the GP would recognise a problem. It is pointed out that 19% of GPs had met victims, and all GPs who responded said they would not know where to refer victims for support. Will the Leader ask the Minister for Health to prepare an educational leaflet for GPs as a starting point? There should be awareness among GPs and they should know where to refer people. This issue must be brought to the fore, particularly in light of Senator Bacik's Bill on the issue.
10:40 am
Thomas Byrne (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I acknowledge the passing of one of our former colleagues, former Senator Jimmy Mulroy, who served in the Seanad between 1987 and 1989 and served as Mayor of Drogheda and a member of Louth County Council for a number of years. Presumably there will be formal tributes in due course but he was an honest and successful man in business and in sport and I would like to express my sympathy to his family and friends all round the north east. He played a huge role in every field, football, business and politics, and he will be deeply missed.
Aideen Hayden (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Would it be possible to have a debate on the wider housing market, particularly investment properties? I noted the Governor of the Central Bank's recent comments, where he advocated wholesale repossession of buy-to-let properties. We all know there are significant levels of mortgage arrears on buy-to-let properties and I have publicly stated that it is unfair the non-principal private residence tax should be levied on landlords for a full year, along with the new residential property tax for the other half of the year.
The most recent reports from daft.ie show that rents are rising, particularly in urban areas, by up to 6%. We know from the evidence of organisations working in the field that people in receipt of rent supplement are digging into their social welfare benefits to pay these increased rents and we have serious issue with the payment of rent supplement, which is not keeping up with rents that are being demanded. This the opposite of upward-only rent reviews, in that every successive Minister, including the current Minister, has come in and dropped the rate of support for tenants. This is an important aspect of the housing market and requires a more holistic approach than looking to the Department of Finance or the Department of Social Protection. We stand at a crossroads in the housing market, particularly the buy-to-let market. We must give this some serious attention.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
We can talk in the abstract about the housing market but the simple fact is that an enormous number of people simply cannot pay. They have been squeezed dry. I was delighted to hear Senator MacSharry fulminate on this subject and I hope Fianna Fáil will give a commitment that at the next election that it will revoke this grossly unjust tax.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It might if it is going into government with Sinn Féin.
I welcome the Caritas report. I am sometimes critical of political aspects of the Vatican but I salute the Roman Catholic Church in particular for this wonderful report over the entire range of European countries worst affect by austerity. It shows clearly that austerity does not work and that it has introduced structural unemployment and structural poverty.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
We are told the property tax will be a local tax that will go back into the local economy. Who believes that? It is a load of rubbish because we are already paying for these services. We pay for refuse, the roads through car tax, and now we will be paying for water. What is left? It is a tissue of nonsense. This is wrong, stupid and immoral and I am making up a checklist and will add to it every time the Government does something I regard as wrong and immoral, a checklist of what we are expected to celebrate for the centenary of 1916, our glorious revolution: soup kitchens, children in the little hedge schools being told to jump up and down to keep warm because there is no heating, evictions, and now people being financially punished for improving their homes. To add to the insult, the most un-Irish measure of all, people's neighbours are being induced by monetary reward to inform on them. Where is the spirit of Michael Davitt and James Fintan Lalor?
Caít Keane (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I hope the Senator is writing-----
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I wish the Senator would shout louder; I cannot hear.
Caít Keane (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I will talk to the Senator later.
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senator MacSharry deserves marks for doing so many things so well, including anger. I am disappointed the Senator is upset. On this question of mortgage arrears, we are all aware of their level at present and acknowledge the banks have been behind the curve in dealing with it. They now have the tools and have taken on hundreds of extra staff to deal with the matter. The Governor the Central Bank has become more engaged with the issue and the Central Bank, which has the power to deal with this, is putting pressure on the banks. The important thing to many people, and many of them have not dealt with this properly, is that they contact their financial adviser or bank. There is consideration and the banks must deal with this and there will be movement. That is a hopeful sign.
Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Will they pay the property tax for them as well?
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
That is a separate matter.
David Cullinane (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
On eight separate occasions in this House I have called for a debate on poverty. As Senator Zappone says, we should have a constructive debate on the causes of poverty in the State. I made those calls as someone who sees when doing constituency work the increasing numbers of people living in poverty.
There have been two reports, a study and an analysis of the CSO figures from last year, which show conclusively that poverty levels are increasing. The CSO figures show 25% of the population lives in deprivation, an increase of 50% in two years, proving the last two budgets were the most unequal of the last six. A third of children live in deprivation. Twice as many people - 15% - who are at work are in deprivation compared with 2009. The vulnerable, the unemployed and the low paid are the people who have been hit the hardest.
We also had the Europe-wide study mentioned by Senator Norris of the five states in the European Union most affected by austerity and it showed once again the deep impact austerity measures are having on families. It shows high levels of unemployment across Europe and dangerously high levels of youth unemployment. Children are at greater risk of poverty and social exclusion. This report paints a picture of Europe in a real and deep crisis.
While all of that is happening, and while more tax increases that disproportionately affect lower income families are being introduced, we will discuss today the turning of ¤32 billion of toxic banking debt into sovereign debt.
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Senator must change his tune. The promissory notes are gone.
David Cullinane (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Those people live in poverty in this State, and I know Senators on the Government side might find that uncomfortable. I will not be changing my tune because it remains exactly the same.
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Senator is like a broken record.
Caít Keane (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
He never changes his tune.
10:50 am
David Cullinane (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I am sure people who are living in poverty and suffering will find some of the comments by Senators on the other side highly offensive given that they will have to repay debts which are not theirs.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senator Cullinane is over time.
David Cullinane (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
What Senator Cummins and his colleagues in the Labour Party simply cannot comprehend is that not one single cent of the ¤32 billion belongs to the people of the State. It was not spent nor borrowed by them.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Senator should resume his seat. He must respect the Chair.
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Let him at it.
David Cullinane (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I am making the point that I will not be lectured by Senators on the other side. I will not change my tune and I will continue to stand up for those who are living in poverty and will continue to live in poverty unless we make different policy decisions.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The next time, I will not ask the Senator to respect the Chair but to remove himself from the House.
Caít Keane (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I suppose, with his history, he has no respect for life and no respect for-----
David Cullinane (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
We know what Senator Keane's party did for the country.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Did Senator Keane say Senator Cullinane had no respect for life? Was that what was said? I did not hear the comment but if she made the remark I thought I heard, that Senator Cullinane has no respect for life, I ask respectfully that it be withdrawn. The Cathaoirleach should ask her to withdraw it.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I did not hear any remark.
Jimmy Harte (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
With so much going on at once, I have almost forgotten what I was about to say. I would welcome a debate on poverty. People who are suffering poverty and cannot afford basic necessities do not have the luxuries available to the leader of Sinn Féin who can travel first class to America and have his medical treatment paid by a multimillionaire.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?
Jimmy Harte (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I ask for a debate on poverty. Unlike the rest of the population, Deputy Gerry Adams can call on his friends in Manhattan to pay for his hospital treatment and fly first class to New York and back, which we would all love to do but do not have such a luxury available to us. It is important to have a debate on poverty in order that those who talk about it also practise it.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?
Jimmy Harte (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
On the property tax, one of the parties opposite imposed a property tax, while the other agreed to the introduction of such a tax in its agreement with the troika. Both parties now oppose the property tax for purely populist reasons.
The leader of the Opposition in the Dáil stated in the other House and in interviews that he feels a certain amount of guilt about the scandal of the Magdalen laundries. One does not state in court that one feels a certain amount of guilt because one is either guilty or not guilty. The efforts by the Fianna Fáil Party to argue it is only half-guilty are a little like saying "I am slightly pregnant."
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Goodness me, is the Senator really pregnant?
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Does Senator Harte have a question for the Leader?
Jimmy Harte (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Yes, I ask him to arrange a debate on poverty.
Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The most pressing issue of the day is the revelation that one quarter of the population are living a life of deprivation in which they are deprived of basic necessities. I do not see any urgency on the part of the Government to tackle this issue. When 56% of single parent households are described as living in deprivation, we can only imagine what will be the consequences for future generations. As is the case with the mortgage crisis, we have not seen any Government action on the issue of poverty, other than announcements that it is establishing a commission or inquiry or appointing individuals to certain roles. We have activity but no action.
Some Senators opposite seem to have cited the leaked report into the death of Savita Halappanavar. Have they received the report or spoken to anyone about it? The report and the tragic case in Galway are being utilised by some people who have the best of intentions and others who want to have abortion on demand. The latter are using the tragedy to fulfil their own-----
Ivana Bacik (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
On a point of order, I utterly refute and reject the sly innuendo in the Senator's comments.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Does Senator Daly have a question for the Leader?
Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I did not refer to Senator Bacik.
Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I recall being scolded by her for interrupting during the Order of Business.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?
Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I ask the Leader to organise a debate on the crisis in nursing. Graduate nurses in County Kerry were brought into a meeting and told by their bosses, who are only doing their job, that if they did not sign contracts by 24 February, they would be fired. The Minister for Health is blackmailing nurses by threatening to get rid of them if they do not accept a cut in pay. Nurses and graduate nurses do not have a choice in this matter as they want to stay at home rather than move to Australia, England or America. They have also been told that if they are not replaced, nurses on the ward will have to adapt. Patients will suffer as a result. I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on the nursing crisis and the reasons the Minister for Health is blackmailing graduate nurses.
Michael Mullins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
On the day that the team from the "Operation Transformation" television programme is before the Joint Committee on Health and Children, I ask the Leader to arrange an urgent debate on the recently published report by the Seanad consultation committee on lifestyle changes which could prevent one third of cancers. This short and snappy report highlights some interesting statistics, for instance, that 1,200 cancers per annum are caused by alcohol, one third of all cancers are caused by tobacco use and more than 300,000 children are either overweight or obese. It is a fine report which outlines significant changes people can make to help improve their health.
Labelling has become a prominent issue in news reports due to developments in the meat industry. It is imperative that alcohol products carry health warnings on the potential for alcohol use to cause cancers. A debate on the committee's report would allow the House to examine the use and abuse of alcohol in this country. Many people are in favour of the introduction of minimum pricing and a structural separation of alcohol from other products in some of the large multiples. This would require people to make a clear choice to purchase alcohol as distinct from having it readily available on shelves throughout a store. The report is significant and the committee involved is to be complimented. I ask that the Leader to bring it before the House as a matter of urgency in order that all Senators can contribute to a debate on the issue.
Feargal Quinn (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Yesterday at a conference in Dublin, a number of speakers from the United States stated that the number of foreclosures on mortgages in Ireland was too low. They noted that one of the reasons America has managed to emerge from the mortgage crisis is the high number of mortgage foreclosures in the US. I had not heard this view expressed previously and it dawned on me that there is a vested interest involved in this issue because the banks and landlords have a different viewpoint from tenants and home owners. This may explain the change in the Government's opinion on upward only rent reviews. To the best of my knowledge, the Labour Party and the Fine Gael Party both entered government, having given a commitment that the abolition of upward only rent clauses would be part of the programme for Government. The reason they gave when they changed their minds on the issue was that abolishing upward only rent reviews would not be compatible with the Constitution and, as such, would require a referendum. Now that the State owns the banks, is there a danger that we are acting in the best interests of the banks, rather than those who must pay rents that are covered by upward only rent clauses?
It would be worthy to have a debate on that issue in this House. It appears there are two viewpoints on this issue, one of which was expressed before the election by the two parties in government, in respect of which they have since changed their minds. We are told they have changed their minds because it has been determined it is not possible under the Constitution to do so. I do not know whether that is true. If so, we must find a way to overcome that, perhaps by way of an amendment to the Constitution. Upward-only rent reviews are causing huge problems for traders throughout the country.
11:00 am
Feargal Quinn (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
This issue needs to be addressed. The danger is that it is not getting sufficient attention because there are vested interests at stake.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The overriding clause in the Constitution of "the public good" has never be used.
John Kelly (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I support the call by Senator Harte for a debate in this House on the issue of poverty. We all know that poverty comes in all shapes and forms. It is evident every morning in the number of people lying in sleeping bags in doorways, the number of people on social welfare in poverty and the often forgotten middle-income earners who are now the new poor, including prison officers, gardaí, teachers and nurses who simply cannot afford to take any more pay cuts.
I agree with the remarks made by Senator MacSharry in regard to the suggested 3% increase in tax on higher earners, which was ignored in the last budget. I believe the increase in this regard should be even higher. We should return to what was done in the 1980s when we also needed money, namely, the introduction of a third tier of income tax of up to 60% on the income of high earners.
There has been much talk about people on social welfare being exempted from paying the property tax. I have spoken on this issue on several occasions in this House. It is regrettable that people on social welfare will have to pay this tax. We are constantly told by members of the Opposition that it is not worthwhile for people to take up employment because they are being given everything for nothing. If, as proposed, those on social welfare should be given medical cards and exempted from paying the property tax, then there will never be an incentive for people to take up employment. The man with 14 children who is in receipt of ¤60,000 in benefits per annum was mentioned. It would not be worth his while taking up employment. Perhaps it is time the Government considered limiting payment of child benefit to families wherein their are five or six children. I am not in this regard having a go at children or families. We must ensure people are incentivised to work. If we continue to pay people to stay at home we will never achieve anything.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Is Senator Kelly suggesting that the property tax is an incentive to work?
Ned O'Sullivan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I support the calls for a debate on poverty, the contributions on which have been good. I particularly compliment Senator Zappone on her call that, for once, politics be kept out of this debate. It is an important issue. While on the Government side, I never cared much for the Opposition scoring points. I also take a dim view of it now while in opposition. There is more to politics than Members continually sparring.
Ned O'Sullivan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I echo the points made by Senator Zappone. I would be happy to add my name to any all-party motion which would seek to address this issue. We should perhaps invite in agencies like the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and the Samaritans in this regard. Poverty is all around us. It has always been said that the poor will always be with us. The "poor" now includes the majority of people. I see evidence of poverty every evening as I walk home to my apartment. Like other Members, it is an issue with which I deal every weekend in my constituency work.
There is also now a poverty of spirit among people. Many unemployed people who are leaving their homes and spending their days loitering around betting offices and in pubs drinking half pints of stout just to get out from under the feet of their families, are being vilified for doing so. We must also address the poverty of spirit issue.
I commend Senator Zappone on her contribution and believe we should all subscribe to her view.
Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I agree with Senator Barrett that it would be useful to have a debate in this House on the issue of more liberalised trade between the US and Europe. There is a need for politicians, in particular at European level, to look closely at what needs to be done to generate economic growth within Europe. Germany and France are in recession and Japan, which has been in stagnation for almost 20 years, was in recession in the last quarter. These are serious situations. There are no green shoots on the horizon, so we need to deal with them.
I ask that the Leader provide for an early debate on Northern Ireland, in particular the reintroduction in Northern Ireland of internment without trial, although that is not what it is called. The Secretary of State has incarcerated many people, including Marian Price and others. A man in his 70s has been imprisoned without trial for the past 18 months in respect of alleged arms offences. This is unacceptable. It is what led to the 30-years of untold misery in Northern Ireland. Unfortunately, the British Government appears to have learned nothing from that. My concern is that we could easily slide back into that situation.
I would like to make a comment on the report leaked yesterday. It appears from articles in the newspapers that Senator Bacik has seen the report. I am not sure if that is the case.
Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I call on the Minister to release that report. I expressed concern in this House when the Minister appointed a person who had declared pro-abortion views and who is on the record as saying that in a situation-----
Ivana Bacik (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
On a point of order-----
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Does Senator Walsh have a question for the Leader?
Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
----- where events arose, in regimes which have restrictive abortion laws, they should be used to exploit that. That was the view of the chairman appointed by the Minister.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Senator is over time.
Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It would be no surprise to me or anybody if that particular man had included that in the report.
Ivana Bacik (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senator Walsh is out of order in mentioning someone who is not here.
Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I have named that chairman previously in the House and I stand by what I have said.
Martin Conway (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I welcome Judge Egbert Myjer, who recently retired from the European Court of Human Rights and is in the Visitors' Gallery. Judge Myjer is here to attend an important conference on family reunification, organised by the Immigrant Council of Ireland. This is a major issue in terms of the integration of our new communities in this country. I pay tribute to him on his wonderful work at the European Court of Human Rights during the past eight years. I commend him for his commitment to continue on a voluntary basis to promote the importance of human rights and human dignity. I thank him for attending the conference on family reunification which is extremely important.
We must embrace our new communities and facilitate families and loved ones, including parents and children, of those communities to integrate into our society, thus enriching it. I believe passionately that these new communities of the past 20 to 30 years have enhanced our society. We must be progressive in terms of what we do to embrace them, make them feel welcome and facilitate their playing a meaningful and productive role in our society at every level.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Judge Egbert Myjer is welcome to the Seanad Éireann.
Rónán Mullen (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I would be grateful for an opportunity to engage in dialogue with the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht on a number of issues recently drawn to my attention. I would like to hear from the Minister what the Government proposes to do in regard to the ferry contract to Inishmore in the Aran Islands. While this may appear an unimportant issue to some people, the failure of the Government to negotiate the continuation of that contract has resulted in an increase in fare from ¤8 to ¤15, which is another example of the affect of hard times on people. As it was possible for the Government to negotiate the State contract for ferry services between the islands, it is unfortunate it could not do so in respect of the Inishmore ferry service. I am not in this regard attributing blame as I know the Government sought to renew the contract on the same terms as previously. I understand that while the service continues it does so at great expense to people. I would like to think it would still be possible to make progress on that issue.
There is much talk about equality. While equality is good, our understanding of it can often be overly simplistic.
Aiken Promotions is no longer facilitating a free carer's ticket for people who attend one of their events with a person with a disability. This practice used to go on, rightly so, and other concert and event promoters facilitate a person caring for a person with a disability. The GAA, in particular, has a good record. Aiken Promotions gave the reason that it seeks to treat able-bodied people the same as those with disabilities. That misses the point. It is one of the more positive aspects of society that we recognise people who care for a person with disabilities and offer a particular service. It makes it possible to enjoy the good things in life and, in recessionary times, we should ensure that as far as possible. I hope for change in the area, which is one in which the Minister should take an interest.
11:10 am
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
With regard to Senator MacSharry's comments about property tax, it is a bit rich coming from Fianna Fáil to speak about property tax when that party signed us up to a property tax in the troika agreement. Now, the party says-----
Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Has Senator Cummins even met the troika?
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I did not interrupt Senator MacSharry. The Senator had his dramatic moment over there-----
Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
He is telling lies.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Leader without interruption.
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Perhaps Senator MacSharry will give me a moment in the spotlight.
Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Leader's memory is defective.
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Perhaps I can have a moment in the spotlight to answer Senator MacSharry, seeing as he spoke so eloquently on the subject.
Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
We removed it in 1997 when the previous Government had brought it in a year or two earlier and we will remove it again.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senator Walsh, please, the leader without interruption.
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senator Walsh is getting very good at interrupting people.
Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I am trying to keep the Leader on the straight and narrow.
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It is very rich for Fianna Fáil Members to be speaking about property tax. They signed the country up to a property tax in the memorandum of understanding with the troika. Now, Fianna Fáil Members say it should not be introduced despite having signed up to bring it in a number of years ago. Credibility is beginning to wear off and the sheen is beginning to run on this issue. There is no credibility whatsoever but I am glad the party has new ideas in opposition. It is always good to have new ideas in opposition but the party never introduced them when it was in power. I doubt whether the leopard will change its spots in that regard.
I welcome the Senator's comments in respect of the equine DNA issue.
Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
What about the manifesto?
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Does the Senator wish to reply to the debate himself?
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Leader without interruption.
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Senator is trying to get rid of Ministers from the House and will try to succeed in closing down the House if he continues the way he is going.
Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
That is the Government's policy.
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I welcome the Senator's comments on equine DNA and on the Minister, Deputy Coveney, and his work on this issue. It is an EU-wide problem.
Senator Bacik referred to the convention on the Constitution. We wish all convention members well in their deliberations over the weekend.
Yesterday, it was mentioned that it is most regrettable that the HSE document was leaked and reported on in newspapers. Senator Walsh called for the Minister to release the report but the Minister has not yet had sight of the report. It would be quite difficult for him to release it at this point.
Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senator Bacik should show it to him.
Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senator Bacik should give it to him.
Ivana Bacik (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Rubbish, I have not seen it. I saw the Evening Herald like everybody else.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It is a serious thing and very unfortunate for her poor husband. He is the person who should be considered and Members should not be scoring points here.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Can we have the Leader without interruption?
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
If the Minister has not seen a copy of the report, it is impossible for him to release it. I regret the fact that it has been leaked for whatever purpose. It is not acceptable and it does not help the husband and the family of Savita.
Senator Zappone raised a number of questions and I will try to get answers for her in respect of discrimination against LGBT families, the lack of protection for them and the merger of the Equality Authority and the Irish Human Rights Commission. The Minister has not yet appointed a board. Senator Zappone asked when the Bill will be introduced and I will try to find it out.
With regard to a strategy to combat poverty and the setting up of a committee to discuss the area of poverty, I am sure a number of Members of the House would be willing to sit on such a committee if Senator Zappone wishes to form it.
Senators Barrett and Walsh referred to the free trade area between the EU and the US. There has been major progress over recent days in advancing the EU-US trade agreement. It is very welcome as part of building growth and creating jobs on both sides of the Atlantic. As part of its agenda on stability, jobs and growth, the Irish Presidency has identified making progress on an EU-US trade agreement as a top priority. As part of the effort to make progress on the issue, the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Richard Bruton, will hold an informal meeting of the EU trade Ministers in Dublin in April. A successful conclusion to an agreement, as Senator Barrett mentioned, could lead to benefits in excess of ¤150 billion to the EU and over $100 million to Ireland. It will be progressed by Ireland during its Presidency of the EU.
Senator Keane called for an education leaflet to be sent to GPs regarding female genital mutilation. I will bring it to the attention of the Minister for Health. Senator Byrne referred to a vote of sympathy for former Senator Jimmy Mulroy. We will certainly have tributes to the Senator. I was not aware of his death and I am sure we would all like to extend our deepest sympathy to Mr. Mulroy's family.
Senator Hayden called for a wide-ranging debate on the property market. We had a debate on the private rented sector last week, with the Minister of State in attendance. I do not know if the Minister of State will be anxious to attend again but we will bring it to her attention. Senator Norris referred to poverty and the property tax. I did not get a question from the Senator but we know his points on those items.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I referred to a checklist for 2016.
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senator Paul Coghlan outlined measures for people in mortgage arrears. Senator Cullinane called for a debate on poverty. We have had debates on social welfare, jobs, budgets and all of these are linked to poverty. We will try to arrange a special debate on poverty but it is wide-ranging and will encompass a number of Departments. We have had a debate on the Social Welfare Bill and the action plan for jobs, all of which contribute to the reasons people are in poverty.
Senator Daly referred to the 2011 report on deprivation. It dealt with some of the budgets put in place by Fianna Fáil, when it was in government. I have no intention of debating a leaked report. Its leaking was totally ill-advised.
Senator Mullins referred to the public consultation report on lifestyle changes for the prevention of cancer. I will endeavour to have the Minister for Health come in to discuss the document. I remind the House that we will have another public consultation next week. A number of Senators wrote to me seeking such a debate with Ashoka and Social Entrepreneurs Ireland. We will have the debate next Thursday between 11.30 a.m. and 3 p.m. I hope for a good attendance and that people take part in the public consultation session.
I note Senator Quinn's point about upward-only rents. I understand there are constitutional difficulties in that regard but it is certainly on the agenda for the Government. I will bring his remarks to the attention of the Minister for Justice and Equality.
Senator Kelly brought up a wide range of issues and, in particular, incentives for people to work. The Government is all about providing such incentives and that programme is beginning to bear fruit. Another major jobs announcement was made earlier and that will happen again in the near future in a number of areas. Things are, therefore, beginning to turn and let us hope that continues.
Senator Walsh called for a debate on Northern Ireland issues. The issues he raised were discussed by the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement on a number of occasions but it is probably time we had a debate in the House on them. As I mentioned, the Minister for Health has not even had sight of the report the Senator requested him to release.
Senator Conway raised the issue of family reunification and the conference under way in Dublin. I wish the eminent judge and his colleagues well in their deliberations on that subject.
Senator Mullen referred to a number of areas under the remit of the Minister for the Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Perhaps the questions of tickets and Inishmore could be raised via an Adjournment matter. The Minister could give a specific reply to him on them.
11:20 am
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Is the Order of Business agreed?
Sean Barrett (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I thank the Leader but I was hoping the agenda on which he and I concur would be taken on 17 March. Will he make representations? If we wait until the European meeting in April, we will lose time. We are all agreed on what is needed. Ireland has unique access-----
Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I assure the Senator that the Taoiseach will do that.
Sean Barrett (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I thank the Leader.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Is the Order of Business agreed? Agreed.
Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I seek leave to introduce a Bill.
Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Senator needed to move an amendment to the Order of Business, which has been agreed at this stage.