Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Order of Business shall be No. 1, Merchant Shipping (Registration of Ships) Bill 2013 - Committee and Remaining Stages, to be taken at 11.45 a.m. and to be adjourned no later than 2 p.m. if not previously concluded; No. 2, Public Health (Sunbeds) Bill 2013 - Second Stage, to be taken at 2 p.m. and to be adjourned no later than 3.30 p.m., with the contribution of all group spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes and that of all other Senators not to exceed five minutes; No. 3, Private Members' business, the Seanad Electoral (Panel Members) (Amendment) Bill 2014, to be taken at 3.30 p.m. and to conclude no later than 5.30 p.m; there will be a sos between 5.30 p.m. and 7.30 p.m.; and No. 5, motion regarding Committee of Inquiry into Certain Aspects of the Banking Crisis, to be taken at 7.30 p.m. and to conclude no later than 8.30 p.m., with the contribution of all Senators not to exceed five minutes and the Minister to be called on to reply no later than 8.25 p.m.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I ask that we would have an urgent debate on the Government's approach and attitude to Gaelscoileanna throughout the country, in particular in terms of nurturing education through the medium of the Irish language in a way that supports all Gaelscoileanna. Senator Comiskey raised an Adjournment matter yesterday concerning a Gaelscoil in his and my area, Gaelscoil Chnoc na Ré, which is seeking that a second class would start for the next school year. The Government will not allow that, however, although there is no good reason for this in terms of demographics, geography, funding or anything else, nor, indeed, is there an argument that it adversely affects the future of any of the other schools in the area. Despite Senator Comiskey's best efforts last night, a very unsatisfactory answer was given by the Minister of State on behalf of the Minister, Deputy Quinn, and the Government.
The reality is very far from the commitments of the programme for Government or the individual stated positions or manifestos of Fine Gael or Labour in respect of their notional support for nurturing the Irish language and education through the medium of the Irish language. I ask that we would have an urgent debate on this because there are instances, such as the one Senator Comiskey and I would promote in Sligo and others throughout the country, that require support before it is too late in the context of enrolments for next September. I ask that this could happen well in advance of the summer recess so we can have an accurate and informative debate and get to the nitty-gritty of what the Government's position is, and whether we are supporting this or whether it is conditional on other issues.
I again propose an amendment to the Order of Business that the Minister, Deputy James Reilly, come to the House to discuss the high-level review of maternity services in the West-North West Hospital Group, an issue I raised yesterday. The proposals in the review put in danger the maternity services of the West-North West Hospital Group, which, as we know, stretches from Galway to Donegal and from Mullingar to the Atlantic ocean. I see the trusted publication that is The Irish Timestoday has a headline on page 3 outlining this detail and the fact it could be politically explosive, although, of course, we in these Houses know that, and this is just one report. I have a copy of the report with me and I am happy to make it available to every Member of the House so we can discuss its detail. The Government denial that the content of the report is under consideration is extremely worrying and it is cynical in the extreme that these plans are being prepared in secret and in advance of polling day, after which, presumably, it will come to public light.
I have a further revelation for the Leader, which might be a little worrying. While I have the report which relates to the West-North West Hospital Group, I point out to the Leader that others exist that cast doubt over the future of the following centres: Tralee, south Tipperary, Clonmel, Kilkenny, the Leader's own area of Waterford, Cavan-Monaghan, Wexford, Mullingar, Portlaoise and Drogheda, which are all being considered for downgrading or midwife-only-led services. What I would say in regard not only to my own region, which is covered by this report, but in regard to the Leader's region and those of many Members of this House, is that there are very genuine concerns among mothers who hope to grow their family, or those who hope to be mothers in the future, as to whether they are going to have obstetrician-led services in their area, and as to whether this Government is planning, as I have revealed for my area, to dismantle obstetrician-led maternity services in the West-North West Hospital Group.

Ivana Bacik (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Following on from yesterday's Order of Business, at which I spoke on the Guerin report and sought a debate on it in this House, I wish to report to the House that the Secretary General of the Department of Justice and Equality is going to attend before the justice committee on, I think, next Tuesday, 20 May. Indeed, we are in the process this morning of conducting hearings on oversight mechanisms for policing and the Garda. I would again ask the Leader for a more overarching debate in the House on policing and the findings of the Guerin report in early course. Now that we know the Secretary General is likely to attend next week, I believe we could move forward during the following week or the week after that to have a debate in this House on policing.

I thank the Leader again for organising the debate last night on Boko Haram and the appalling abductions of the schoolgirls in Nigeria. In the course of that debate, some interesting issues were raised. In particular, I commend Senator van Turnhout on raising an issue about domestic legislation which is open to potential abuse, namely, the provisions in the Family Law Act, as retained by the Civil Registration Act 2004, which allow an exemption from the normal legal minimum age for marriage, which is 18, and allow children to marry at 16 under certain conditions. That exemption has been commented on unfavourably in the High Court as being open to abuse. I would like to express my support for Senator van Turnhout's view that we could bring forward Private Members' legislation in this House on the issue. Indeed, it is something I some months ago raised with the former Minister for Justice and Equality and the Minister for Social Protection and I believe there would be support at Government level for such legislation. I will certainly be working with Senator van Turnhout on that and we might seek a debate on it in due course.

Jillian van Turnhout (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Bacik. I would certainly be very open to working with her on bringing forward legislation, which would be quite a discrete piece of legislation. As she said, we had a debate in the Seanad yesterday about the mass abduction of a reported 234 and possibly as many as 300 schoolgirls in the rural village of Chibok in north-eastern Nigeria by the militant Islamic extremist organisation, Boko Haram. Senators were given five minutes to make a statement and, as I said in my intervention, it was nearly impossible to bring any substance to such an important issue in such a limited time. The issues are extremely complex and extend far beyond what immediately appears relevant. To understand how best to tackle kidnapping, it is necessary to understand the genesis of Boko Haram and its five year reign of terror in north-east Nigeria. Issues pertaining to economic drivers, corruption, bad governance, state violence and external radical religious ideology sit side by side with prevailing acts of violence against women, gender based violence and breaches of women's reproductive health and rights worldwide.

I call on the Leader to facilitate a full debate on violence against women and gender based violence. I know this is something the Minister of State, Deputy Costello, would welcome also, and it would be good if we could have a wider debate on this issue. There are lessons for Ireland to learn and actions that Ireland can take. I would like to use this opportunity to acknowledge that yesterday marked the launch in Ireland of the global rights campaign "I Decide". The campaign was launched by the IFPA and calls on world leaders to support women's and girl's basic sexual and reproductive rights. "I Decide" focuses on four key rights of all women and girls across the world: the right to decide what happens to their bodies and who to share their life with; the size of their family; whether to have children and, if so, when and how many children; and the right to decide their future. The "I Decide" campaign is calling for sexual and reproductive health rights to be central to the new development framework which will replace the Millennium Development Goals after 2015, and aims to collect 1 million signatures to present to UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, in the summer of 2015. Mine will certainly be one of those signatures.

I note the Leader has proposed we discuss the motion on the joint committee of inquiry into the banking crisis this evening, which I will certainly support. Both personally and on behalf of my group colleagues, individually and collectively, I would like to propose that Senator Seán Barrett be nominated as one of the two Senators to this group given his-----

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That goes before the selection committee.

Jillian van Turnhout (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I understand that but I just want to publicly note it. It is not often we reach consensus in our group of Independent colleagues. He has our unanimous support. I would like to propose that he be nominated to this important body, where many questions need to be answered.

Feargal Quinn (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I support Senator van Turnhout's proposal to the effect that Senator Barrett should serve on the committee in question.

Some time ago we requested that, as is the case in other countries, the VAT on defibrillators should be reduced to 0%. Has the relevant Minister managed to achieve any progress in this regard? Negotiations on the matter were due to take place at European level under Directive 2006/123/EC, which states that VAT should be equal in all countries and which does not grant power to reduce it to 0%.

Ireland is unique in charging 23% VAT on the first-time sales of works of art by living artists. In other countries, including Britain, the rate charged is only 9%. It would be extremely positive if we could reduce the reduce the relevant rate of VAT from 23% to 9% because this would discourage artists from leaving the country and going elsewhere. Communities in general and the economy at large would benefit if we were to make the change to which I refer. It does not make sense to charge 23% VAT on works of art in this country when the authorities in Britain and elsewhere only charge 9%.

Complaints are being made throughout the country with regard to the threat to the main streets in our towns. This is due to the fact that car parking in large shopping centres is free. The parking charges which apply in respect of main streets are making matters very difficult. In France, the parking charge period has been reduced to 15 minutes from one hour. This means that on each occasion one pays at a parking meter, one only pays for 15 minutes. This means that someone who wants to drop into the local shop to purchase a newspaper or whatever is only obliged to pay a very small amount. If he or she leaves her car there for an additional five or ten minutes, he or she is only obliged to pay for an additional 15 minutes. It makes sense to draw attention to what the authorities in France have done in respect of this matter, particularly as the lifeblood is being sucked out of many of our main streets as a result of the car parking charges that apply. What has been done in France makes sense and I am of the view that we should consider following suit.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I do not want to get involved in the activities of the Sligo amateur drama society this morning.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What about Tralee?

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Tralee is grand.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Tralee is a bit of a concern now. The Senator would want to start-----

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Does Senator Paul Coghlan have a question for the Leader?

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Barrett for bringing to my attention the Save Killarney Oak Woods campaign.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What about the maternity unit?

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator Paul Coghlan, without interruption.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I want to refer briefly to the capital of Irish tourism and our greatest national park, Killarney National Park, which encompasses 27,000 acres. There are two oak woods - Tomies Wood and Derrycunnihy Wood - there that are unique in a global context and wherein the Sessile oak thrives. Large areas of both woods have been invaded by rhododendron and it is extremely important that these be cleared. Great efforts have been made in the past to remove the rhododendron and up to 40% was removed by international volunteers in the period up to 2005. The work in this regard is ongoing at Killarney National Park. It is being done by park rangers under the supervision of Mr. Pat Dawson, regional manager of the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and Mr. Peter O'Toole. Voluntary Services International, a recognised group, provides them with assistance each summer. A number of international volunteers are also involved. I commend everyone mentioned on the work they are doing. As Senator Barrett and I are aware, there is another group which probably wants to become involved again but there is some aggro taking place in that regard. We will leave it to the officials to deal with that aspect. I understand that a report will be forthcoming. Said report will be different from that to which Senator MacSharry has referred because it will be real and has been authorised by-----

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator Paul Coghlan should read the report to which I refer. He should leave the oak woods until another day and think instead of the women of Kerry and Portiuncula. The Government will not even allow us to debate the report, of which I have a copy in my possession.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What I said was meant as an aside.

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator MacSharry should-----

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am being provoked. I have gone hoarse trying to defend the women of Ireland.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator has gone hoarse and should save his voice.

I take this opportunity to commend the recent efforts of Mountain Meitheal, which comprises the chamber of commerce, local volunteers, the Tidy Towns committee and others and which has been scoping out the new loop walk that will circle the lakes of Killarney. When finished, the latter is going to be tremendous. I invite Senators to come down to Kerry in order to see the parts that have already been completed. Mountain Meitheal is clearing pathways and trails and its volunteers are to be commended on their work. I will return to this matter. When the official report from the Department has been completed, perhaps it might be the subject of a debate in the House.

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In the first instance I wish to note our disappointment with the way in which the Order of Business was conducted yesterday. Many Senators were not able to contribute as a result of the Punch and Judy politics in which some were engaging. We wanted to support some of the points that were made but could not do so. The leaders of the various groups must take their people aside and talk to them in order to ensure that there will be no recurrence.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Hear, hear.

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?

Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What happened yesterday does not reflect well on the House at all.

I wish to refer to a serious matter which was raised yesterday by the Immigrant Council of Ireland, namely, the ban on political canvassing in direct provision centres. This ban, which was introduced by the Reception and Integration Agency, RIA, prevents residents who have a right to vote in the local elections from making informed decisions. It is an absolute disgrace. We are already denying the people of many of their other democratic rights but the right to vote is one of the few they have. RIA has directed that no one connected with the political parties, etc., is allowed to speak to residents at the centres. The Immigrant Council of Ireland has stated that "canvassing is an opportunity to inform residents, who in many cases have limited or no access to the web and other media, to find out what each candidate stands for. For some asylum seekers the local poll could be their first opportunity to take part in fair and free elections". This matter must be addressed immediately by the Ministers for the Environment, Community and Local Government and Justice and Equality, who have responsibility for elections and RIA, respectively.

Will the Leader also raise with the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans for the Wind Turbine Regulation Bill 2014, Second Stage of which was agreed in the Dáil? Will he seek to discover when the Bill is going to be progressed through the Lower House in order that it might be brought before us? Perhaps we might engage in a debate on the Green Paper on Energy Policy in Ireland while we are awaiting the Bill, particularly as we are all concerned about the issues involved. The Wind Turbine Regulation Bill, if passed, would prevent any questionable developments from being progressed in the interim.

Denis Landy (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I support what Senator Ó Clochartaigh said in respect of asylum seekers and the ban on their being canvassed by the political parties. In many parts of the country local election candidates of all persuasions have organised meetings outside direct provision centres and these have proven to be very successful. The ban is unacceptable, however. In the previous local elections in 2009, certain candidates were granted access to the centres. That is all I will say on the matter for now.

I wish to bring to the attention of the House an issue that has been raised with me in recent days by the snap net fishermen who operate on the River Suir. For those who may not know, snap net fishermen work in teams of four on small boats approximately 18 ft long and known as cots. There are usually two fishermen per cot and they spread a net across the river, generally on the tide, between two cots. They only fish during certain months. This year, however, Inland Fisheries Ireland, IFI, has prevented fishing on the River Suir because it states that the numbers of fish counted in previous years were so low. According to the snap net fishermen to whom I refer, the IFI has agreed with them that the counts of salmon on the River Suir were actually inaccurate. I am of the view, therefore, that the fishermen cannot be prevented from operating on the basis of such counts. This issue has been ongoing for some years but matters have come to a head this year because the fishermen have been completely banned from the river. The tradition of snap net fishing dates back more than 1,000 years. It is no longer a commercial enterprise. Rather, those involved are merely maintaining the tradition to which I refer on the Suir and also on the River Nore and the River Barrow. I request that the Leader invite the Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy O'Dowd, who has responsibility for inland fisheries, to come before the House for a debate on this matter in order that we might obtain some degree of clarity.

We cannot allow men to be prevented from engaging in fishing based on the provision of inaccurate information.

Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Yesterday I had intended to raise an issue, but I was unable to do so because time ran out. The issue was one that had received extensive coverage in the national media and related to the sequel to the death in Mullingar of Mr. Andrew Dolan from Carrick-on-Shannon. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. The case finally came to a conclusion yesterday, but serious issues arise from it which have been reported in the media and which I wish to bring to the attention of the Leader. Judge Anthony Hunt said Mr. Dolan had been "minding his own business" on the night in question but had been "singled out and confronted by Ms Hughes" who had slapped him. He was subsequently struck by Mr. Patrick Daly. The people involved, whose names are in the public domain, were Ms Jessica Hughes of Killucan, County Westmeath and a Mr. Patrick Daly of Clonard, County Meath. Mr. Dolan was struck by Mr. Daly before another man delivered a blow which resulted in an injury which proved fatal. The third person involved, Mr. Patrick Farrell, has already been sentenced to three and a half years in prison. The point I wanted to make was that the judge had said that in a "human sense" the pair had contributed to the death of Mr. Dolan. He also said he was saying this "in the most general sense, not in the narrow legal sense." He suggested the law could be looked at to cover the issue of peripheral involvement in order to deal with matters of collective responsibility. In other words, the three people in question attacked this innocent young man who had been at a party, put his hands up to walk away and said, "Please don't hit me, please don't hit me." As his parents said, all of his family had been advised to walk away from trouble. As a result of the fatal blow, his head hit the sidewalk outside the fast food restaurant in Mullingar and he subsequently died. Not only was his death such an appalling tragedy, its timing could not have been worse in that it happened over the Christmas period. Will the Leader ask the Minister for Justice and Equality to take account of the comments of Judge Hunt in this case? Not only has the unfortunate Dolan family, whom I know well and who are pillars of the community in Carrick-on-Shannon, suffered as a result, other families have suffered, too, because of random, senseless acts of violence on the streets of Ireland on a weekly basis. My final comment comes from the victim impact statement made by Mr. Joe Dolan yesterday. He said, "In God's name, can someone call a halt to this senseless carnage?"

Michael Mullins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I note with interest that Senator Marc Mac Sharry is attempting to spread doubt, worry and concern to other parts of the country. I wonder what the Senator has against midwives because the development of midwife-led units alongside obstetric units is recommended in the report to which he refers. That is what we expect to see as the jewel in the crown in Ballinasloe which was rated second in the country for maternity services. We expect to have a midwife-led service alongside the obstetric-led service, as confirmed by the fact that two additional obstetricians will be appointed in the coming months.

I welcome the announcement in the past few days of the capital investment programme by Irish Water, particularly the significant investment to be made in County Galway.

Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The installation of meters, is it?

Michael Mullins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I welcome, in particular, the investment to be made in the Loughrea regional water scheme which, for the first time in 30 years, will bring closer to the people of Kilreekil a basic civil right. I hope that in the near future they will have a water scheme for the village as a result of the development of infrastructure under the Lougrea regional water scheme. I also welcome the investment to be made in the Ballinasloe scheme and the Kinvara sewerage scheme. At last, the wonderful Kinvara Bay will have the scheme for which we have campaigned so strongly for many years. There will also be investment in the Athenry, Ballygar and Mountbellew sewerage schemes. This is a significant announcement and I urge Irish water to proceed with the work and development of these schemes in the shortest time possible.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Plenty of water but no obstetricians.

Sean Barrett (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I express concern at the report by Fionnan Sheahan in the Irish Independenttoday that loans of up to 95% will be offered to young borrowers for housing. Undoubtedly, this will inflate house prices. This has happened in a similar scheme in the United Kingdom and is something we do not need. The British "help-to-buy" scheme for houses worth up to £800,000 only inflated the market, as reported in Mr. Sheahan's article. One of the key pieces of research, from the Brookings Institution in Washington DC, was entitled, Too Much Capital for Housing. It may seem counter-intuitive, but if supply is inelastic and the amount of finance available is increased, prices will rise. This is a problem we must address. I draw attention to a comment made by Professor Ronan Lyons of TCD during the week. He said construction wages in Ireland were still 25% higher than in Germany. Perhaps this is one of the reasons we have a housing market that is in the state it is in. We have had a recession and consumers now have less money to spend. House prices should fall even more, which is the way we can solve the problem. The Government is studying the issue, but we must be aware that the last time builders and bankers got together, they did serious damage to the country. In Mr. Sheahan's article a statement attributed to a Government spokesperson indicates that the banks are offering 90% mortgages, but that the business is capital intensive for the banks. It is, but freeing capital into the housing market will push up prices. The evidence is that a 20% deposit and a maximum loan of approximately two and a half times one's income are required to have stability in the housing market. The danger is we could start all over again the same cycle that resulted in so much damage being caused the last time.

John Gilroy (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Electroconvulsive therapy, ECT, is a treatment used in mental health services which involves the passing of an electric current through a person's brain. In 2012, the last year for which we have figures available, 244 patients received ECT treatment, of whom, incredibly, 27 received it without their consent, of whom four were unwilling to give it. The Mental Health Act, section 59, is the governing legislation in this regard. All that is required, if a patient is unwilling or unable to give consent, is the recommendation of two consultant psychiatrists. Last week my friend and colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch, indicated her willingness to remove one element of section 59, namely, the words "unwilling to give consent". Perhaps she does not fully understand the position and the argument being made in this regard. I, therefore, ask the Leader to invite the Minister of State to come to the House in order that we can impress on her the importance of deleting the entire section which allows ECT treatment to be given with the consent of two consultant psychiatrists without the patient's consent. There is no other legislation of which I am aware on the Statute Book which allow such a deeply invasive procedure to be performed without people's consent. If there is a necessity for ECT treatment - I have grave doubts about this having been a psychiatric nurse for 30 years - as a measure of last resort or as a life-saving procedure, the argument should be made in court. The authority should not be given to two medical personnel.

David Cullinane (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

On 1 May I launched my party's workers' rights proposals to coincide with International Labour Day. One of the things for which we have called consistently and which is also called for in the document is collective bargaining legislation and trade union recognition. We cannot have collective bargaining in the State without trade union recognition. The announcement made yesterday was not surprising.

The Government announced that it is going to bring forward legislation to enable collective bargaining but it will not include trade union recognition. That is a big mistake because one cannot have one without the other, effectively. In the Leader's own county of Waterford, for example, a number of years ago, the TalkTalk company closed. Not only was there shock at the loss of 500 to 600 jobs, there was also shock at the manner in which the workers found out that their jobs were gone and the disgraceful way they were treated by their employer at the time. There was no trade union although there was what is known as a company union or an employee representative group. That is what happens when one does not have trade union recognition and companies which will not negotiate with trade unions. It is a fundamental right for any citizen who is a member of a trade union to be represented by that body. As we have seen in so many cases, however, many companies, including Ryanair, the aforementioned TalkTalk and many others will not recognise trade unions. In such circumstances, workers are being denied a basic right.

I call for a debate on this issue. I ask the Leader to arrange for the Minister to come to the House before he publishes the legislation so that we can take him through our concerns - and that of many in the broad labour movement, including the Labour Party and the trade unions themselves - with what is being proposed. Obviously the trade unions have been lobbying the Labour Party but it is also quite clear that employer organisations have been knocking on a different door and have been lobbying Fine Gael. It would seem that the employers got exactly what they wanted because while we will have some form of collective bargaining legislation, it will fall far short of what is required. It will be yellow-pack collective bargaining introduced in the 101st anniversary of the 1913 Lock-out. In the context of the celebration of the centenary of the Lock-out last year, it falls far short.

This is an area that we should be discussing because there are a number of Senators in this House who were elected through the Labour Panel to represent the interests of labour. I am one of those Senators, as is Senator Cummins. I ask him to arrange for that debate as quickly as possible so that we can question the Minister on exactly what his intentions are and what will be included in the proposed legislation.

Terry Brennan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise an issue that has been raised with me on doorsteps in recent times, namely, our rate of income tax. Our rates are far too high and I believe they must be reviewed. There will be an opportunity to review them in the forthcoming budget and that must be done. The income tax rates act as a disincentive for educated young people. I had occasion on Monday night last to speak to two young siblings who hope to graduate this year. They both want to emigrate to gain experience abroad. However, another reason for emigrating was the rate of tax that they would have to pay in this country. One is emigrating to the United Arab Emirates where tax is not payable and the other is going to Canada. It is a pity. I am sure I am not the only politician to have discovered in recent weeks that this is a serious issue. We must review the overall tax rates and give young people the opportunity to work at home and contribute to their own Exchequer. I believe and hope that it is the Minister for Finance's intention to review the tax bands in the forthcoming budget and I would encourage him to do so. Middle income earners and many retired people, many of whom have paid their rightful dues for 40 years or more, are paying high taxes here. Tax is paid at 52% on every €1 over €32,800.

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Is Senator Brennan seeking a debate?

Terry Brennan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Yes, I am seeking a debate on this issue and on the universal social charge, USC. My understanding of the latter was that it would be an interim, emergency measure but it now seems to be part and parcel of our tax code. The bands must be reviewed.

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator is over time.

Terry Brennan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I wish to support Senator Quinn's call for no VAT to be applied to defibrillators, as is the case in many other European countries.

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I second Senator MacSharry's proposed amendment to the Order of Business.

Just over two weeks ago, Mr. Pat Spillane, a very well regarded man in the world of GAA and in Ireland generally, published a report by CEDRA entitled "Energising Ireland's Rural Economy". The report was published after extensive consultations all over Ireland and it highlights the economic crisis facing our fellow citizens in rural Ireland. It draws particular attention to the lack of integrated planning between Government Departments and State bodies. Each Department and the State body is working in a silo and is immune to what is happening in other Departments and bodies, with the result that disastrous decisions are being made all over the country. Today 40% of our fellow citizens live in rural Ireland and they are experiencing the loss and closure of key amenities like Garda stations, banks and public houses as well as being threatened with the closure of post offices and schools. Last night there was an excellent report by Michael Lehane on the 9 o'clock news on RTE on the village of Ballycolla in Laois, where the post office is threatened with closure at the end of the month. The villagers spoke of their anguish about the survival of their village. Their fear was visceral. Most of the villagers are pensioners and the post office is the mainstay of the village. The people are completely reliant on the post office for banking, paying bills, collecting their pensions and more. The lady who owns the local shop in the village explained that people go to the post office to collect their pensions and then they do their shopping in the local shop. The whole fabric of the village will be affected by this closure.

In February last there was a protest by the Irish Postmasters Union outside Leinster House. I spoke at the time with Councillor Mary Bohan, who is the postmistress of Drumkeerin post office, who told me that many of the main banks have closed their smaller branches in rural areas which means that many people, particularly the elderly, now depend on post offices to lodge and withdraw cash. She also pointed out that many older people do not have transport to bring them to the nearest town to do their banking so they are totally dependent on the local post office. We must stop the decline of our rural communities.

Yesterday I spoke about the savage cuts affecting older people and the withdrawal of discretionary medical cards from more than 50,000 people.

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator is way over time.

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

This Government is not leading this country back to economic and social stability. I am sure my colleagues on the Government side are hearing this on the doorsteps too. I am hearing, night after night while canvassing, that this Government is the worst ever.

Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In response to Senator White, in the three years before Fianna Fáil left office, 7,000 jobs were being lost every month. We are now creating ---

Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator should deal with the issue.

Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We are now creating 5,000 jobs a month ---

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

When was the election?

Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

--- or over 1,000 jobs per week.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It was three years ago.

Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is what this Government is now doing.

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is also closing post offices around the country.

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Allow Senator Burke without interruption please.

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The banks are closing ---

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Does Senator Burke have a question for the Leader?

Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I do. Yesterday the Government announced funding of €10 million for cycle green ways and a number of other projects in rural areas, including €2 million for Lough Derg development ---

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What about the 200 post offices that have closed down in the last few years?

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator Burke without interruption please. Senator White has already had an opportunity to speak.

Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In the three years before Fianna Fáil left Government ---

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator Burke without interruption.

Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In the three years before Fianna Fáil left Government-----

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Does Senator Burke have a question for the Leader?

Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I have.

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What about jobs in post offices and rural shops?

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Can we have Senator Burke without interruption? Does Senator Burke have a question for the Leader?

Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I welcome the announcement yesterday that the Government is proposing €30 million as a grant towards the rebuilding of Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork? It is a €70 million project. I also welcome the additional money being provided to local authorities to refurbish vacant houses. Over 800 additional vacant houses will be refurbished.

My question for the Leader concerns local authorities and vacant houses. There are 499 vacant houses in the Cork City Council area. I do not understand why when a house becomes vacant, it cannot be allocated immediately. There seems to be a policy in local authorities that they must refurbish the house before it can be re-allocated. As a result, there is a delay and the procedure can take up to six months. By the time the local authority comes to do it, the house has been damaged. It is the responsibility of local authorities to re-allocate houses within seven days of becoming vacant. I am asking for a debate on this issue and for local authorities to be made accountable. It is taxpayers' money that is being squandered. A total of 499 houses are vacant in Cork city alone. It is costing the taxpayer an enormous amount of money to refurbish them. It is time we looked at how we are managing houses once they become vacant. We should have a debate on this issue and see what new procedures need to be put in place. It involves squandering taxpayers' money and should not be allowed.

Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The squandering of taxpayers' money is a good point for me to start off on. The Senator overlooks the fact that his party has been in government for over three years. He is absolutely right. Taxpayers' money is being squandered right across the board in various Departments. I concur fully with everything Senator Brennan said about tax rates. They need to be reduced dramatically. The USC is a huge imposition on people. It was brought in to address the fiscal situation and is at an unsustainable level. Certainly, there should be an immediate move to reduce it to at least 3% or 4%.

I fully support the call by Senator MacSharry for a debate on the report on maternity services and I welcome the fact that the Leader confirmed yesterday that there will be a debate on this issue. I urge caution on the part of Government Members so that they do not rush to defend the indefensible. This leads to group-think and bad policy decisions. They are not really serving their parties or Government well by doing that. They are far better off challenging them on policies that are not in the interests of our citizens. If this is followed through on, it will undoubtedly have implications for the north east, as Senator MacSharry has highlighted. As the Leader knows, it will also have significant implications for the south east where there has been concern in the past with regard to the continuation of maternity services in a number of our hospitals there which provide an extremely good service. There needs to be a debate. We need to ensure that the Minister shows leadership in that Department and pursues and implements policies that are in the interests of the people of the country rather than those of people working within the HSE, many of whom do not work. However, it is hard to have confidence that the current Minister is the one to do it.

Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I also support the call for a debate on the tax system because taxes are too high and Senator Colm Burke's very wise proposal of a seven-day re-allocation period for vacant houses. There are 78 boarded-up houses in Galway city and thousands on the waiting list.

My main reason for standing up today is to raise a question about the provision of easy mortgages for first-time buyers on the back of a Government-backed insurance scheme to protect banks where homeowners may default. I support any scheme that is sustainable and based on sound fundamentals and that will increase supply at affordable prices. However, I do not support any scheme that will inflate prices, as Senator Barrett has said, and where the homeowner genuinely cannot pay back. If we go down that road, we will face the same problems the previous Government created.

It is very important that we have a debate on this issue in this House. I would like to see the following questions answered. What safeguards will we have to ensure that the buyer or mortgage holder can repay? Has this been discussed with the Governor of the Central Bank? At a meeting of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform, he agreed with me in respect of our fair lending policy, that we must prevent reckless lending into the future and that debt-to-income ratios must be adhered to. What is the State's exposure in respect of this scheme? We cannot protect banks and expose the taxpayer again.

Let us move forward on this issue with sound fundamentals and make sure that we create a new supply of houses that are at affordable rates. We must think this issue through very carefully and it would be very wise if the Minister for Finance came to the House before this scheme is announced in the autumn. I know it is under negotiation at the moment and that the Taoiseach is taking a personal interest in rebooting the construction industry. I support that on the basis of it being sustainable and based on sound fundamentals rather than an inflated boom which will inevitably be followed by a bust. We should be really careful and learn from the last one. It cost €64 billion.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator MacSharry proposes an amendment to the Order of Business which I do not propose to accept. I note his points in respect of Gaelscoileanna. The Government is intent on supporting the Irish language. Second stream education for Gaelscoileanna is in place in several areas, in particular Waterford. I am sure the Minister for Education and Skills would be quite willing to come to the House to discuss that matter and I will endeavour to bring him in here.

I suggest that the Senator is scaremongering in respect of obstetricians' services in the north west and elsewhere. What is meant by midwife-led services in conjunction with obstetricians has been explained by Senator Mullins in particular.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He has not even seen the report.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It does not make any sense to speak as Senator MacSharry does when a recruitment process is in place for obstetricians in many areas he mentioned.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Let us debate the report.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator Bacik spoke about the Guerin report. Yesterday, the Government agreed a major set of measures in response to that report on foot of the proposals brought to Government by the Minister for Justice and Equality. A commission of investigation to investigate the issues identified in the report will be established soon. The terms of reference have yet to be finalised but will be in line with the proposals of Mr. Guerin.

The Minister also confirmed that she is to ask the Garda Inspectorate to carry out a comprehensive inquiry into serious crime investigation management operational and procedural issues arising from the findings of the report by Mr. Guerin, taking into account the implementation of the recommendations already made by the inspectorate and earlier reports and work currently being undertaken by the inspectorate. The Government has also agreed to urgently bring forward new legislation to strengthen the operation of the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, which was called for in this House yesterday. This will be advised by the work of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality. The Government has also agreed to the Minister's proposals for an independent expert review of the performance, management and administration of the Department of Justice and Equality.

This will be undertaken and completed before the summer recess. Further details of this independent expert review will be announced in early course and the independent Garda authority is to be up and running by the end of the year. The new Garda Commissioner will be recruited by open competition, with the establishment of the authority. Therefore, a lot has been done in a very short period by the Government to act on the Guerin report, which is to be welcomed by the public and everybody involved.

Senator Jillian van Turnhout raised the question of violence against women. She referred to last evening's debate in the House, which was excellent. I note her points on the Committee of Selection, but that is a matter for it to deal with.

Senator Feargal Quinn made a number of points. VAT on defibrillators is a budgetary matter and I am sure it will be dealt with in the budget. I am also sure the Minister for Health will be making an effort to have them VAT-free. On the reduction of the rate of VAT from 23% to 9% for artistic works for sale, this issue can be raised with the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in order to influence the Minister for Finance before the budget is announced in October. However, these are budgetary matters which are totally for the Minister for Finance to decide. I could not comment on them further.

Senator Feargal Quinn referred to parking charges and the reduction of the charge period to 15 minutes in France. I understand this system is already in place in some towns and cities in Ireland. It should probably be extended to all areas.

Senator Paul Coghlan referred to tourism in Killarney and the work of volunteers in protecting oak woods, in particular. I am sure this is a matter to which we will return at a later stage with the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh questioned the ban on canvassing in direct provision centres. I agree totally with him. I raised the matter five years ago in connection with a direct provision centre in Waterford in which people were not allowed to canvass, despite the request made by those in direct provision accommodation. The ban is very restrictive. As stated by Senator Denis Landy, some candidates were allowed access five years ago, but I am not sure whether that is still the case. What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander. This is a human rights issue and people in direct provision accommodation should be informed and canvassed by those running for election. What is occurring is a retrograde step and I will certainly raise the issue with Minister for Justice and Equality.

I will find out when the wind turbines legislation will pass through the other House and be brought before this one. We will be discussing the report on green energy at a later stage.

Senator Denis Landy referred to the plight of snap-net fishermen on the River Suir owing to conservation measures. There is a query about the numbers. I will certainly raise the matter with Minister of State, Deputy Fergus O'Dowd. Perhaps the matter might be raised on the Adjournment, at which time the Senator could receive a full response from the Minister of State.

Senator Paschal Mooney referred to the tragic death of Mr. Andrew Dolan. It was an absolutely shocking case and I agree with the Senator that the law should be re-examined, as mentioned by the judge. The calls made by Mr. Dolan's parents should not go unheeded. They reflected the views of many parents who had found themselves in similar circumstances in recent years. There have been senseless acts of violence in many towns and cities throughout the country. In many cases, they were alcohol fuelled. As was stated, we have to cry, "Halt." I will certainly bring the matter to the attention of the Minister.

Senator Michael Mullins referred to the capital investment programme announced by Irish Water. This is welcome news for many communities throughout the country and long overdue.

Senators Sean D. Barrett and Fidelma Healy Eames mentioned loans for first-time buyers. This matter was raised in the House yesterday. Senator Fidelma Healy Eames mentioned that the Governor of the Central Bank would be and had been attending committee meetings. I am sure the questions she has posed can be answered comprehensively by the Governor.

Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is no indication as to when he is coming.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am sure the Senator received the answers to the questions she had posed.

Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The scheme was only announced in the past few days.

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Leader to continue, without interruption.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator Sean D. Barrett raised the question of wages of construction workers being 25% greater here than in Germany and referred to the need for Ireland to be more competitive in that regard.

Senator John Gilroy referred to the use of ECT treatment without the consent of the patient and stated we should re-examine the relevant legislation. Legislation on this issue was debated at length in the House and I share the Senator's sentiments. Perhaps the matter might be revisited.

Senator David Cullinane referred to the issue of collective bargaining which was also raised on the Order of Business yesterday. I agree totally with the Senator on the situation at TalkTalk. How workers were treated in that case was totally unacceptable. This has occurred not only in TalkTalk but in many instances throughout the country. We can arrange a discussion on the heads of Bill in the House, but I am sure they will be dealt with by the relevant committee also. It is stated in the Government's proposals for reform of the Seanad that we should debate the heads of Bills in the Seanad when requested to do so, in addition to the relevant committee.

Senator Terry Brennan referred to the rate of income tax. I agree totally with him. Putting people on the higher rate when their income reaches €32,000 is absolutely ludicrous. This matter was also raised by Senator Jim Walsh. There is a need for the Government to reduce the taxes and the USC imposed by the Fianna Fáil Government. I am sure it will do something to address this issue in the next budget.

Senator Mary White mentioned Ireland's rural economy, but I believe she picked the wrong issue in post offices. I understand the work she mentioned was put out to tender and that nobody tendered for it.

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It was a news item.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In the three years prior to our entering government Fianna Fáil closed down 172 post offices.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That was done by the Government.

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In the past two years 200 post offices were closed down.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

If the Leader is to talk about the past, before the Government came to power-----

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Leader should be allowed to continue, without interruption.

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It will be voted out of power in the local elections.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As an actor, Senator Marc Mac Sharry should have waited for the punchline. In the three years of the Government's term, there have been fewer than 20 closures - 17, to be precise.

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In the past two years 200 post offices have been closed down.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is the punchline. There were 172 closures in the three years prior to the Government's coming to power. There have been 17 during the three years we have been in power.

Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There should have been none.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator Mary White should pick appropriate issues on which to fight a battle.

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

An Action Plan for Jobs-----

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Senator is on shifting sands. She picked the wrong issue and shot herself in the foot in that regard.

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Leader should be allowed to continue, without interruption.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He knows what I am talking about.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The example Senator Mary White gave certainly brought no benefit to her party.

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We need to hold on to existing jobs-----

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Leader should be allowed to continue, without interruption.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator Colm Burke mentioned the development of greenways, the funding of €10 million and the development of vacant houses. I agree with him in that regard.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Global warming: blame the Government.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Senator is hoarse since yesterday, he should give his throat a break.

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

What about global warming? The Leader should blame it on Fianna Fáil also.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

On the delays in houses being allocated, I would agree totally that-----

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We will see it in the results of the elections next week.

John Gilroy (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is the hardship being suffered by families that we are blaming Fianna Fáil for.

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

I would agree totally that local authorities should be able to allocate houses as a matter of urgency within a very short period of time. We have seen what happens when they are left for two or three weeks, because it then goes on for longer and longer. I would agree about the need for some policy. A large amount of money is being put in place by the Government in order to refurbish houses that are locked up at present, but there is a need for local authorities themselves to allocate these houses as a matter of urgency. I saw people on the television during the week, whether on "Prime Time" or otherwise, who would be more than delighted to accept and do up houses themselves in order to satisfy their housing need. There is a need for local authorities to act in that regard.

Mary White (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Then tell them what to do.

Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator Healy Eames also raised the matter, as I mentioned, and I also addressed it yesterday when she raised it on the Order of Business.

Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Senator MacSharry has moved an amendment to the Order of Business, "That a debate with the Minister for Health on the high-level review of maternity services in the west and north-west group of hospitals be taken today." Is the amendment being pressed?

Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Yes.