Seanad debates
Thursday, 13 October 2016
Order of Business
10:30 am
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Order of Business is No. 1, statements on the decision by the United Kingdom to leave the European Union with the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, to be taken at 1.30 p.m. and to conclude not later than 3 p.m., with the contributions of each group's spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes and those of all other Senators not to exceed five minutes, and the Minister to be called to reply not later than 3.55 p.m.
Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Fianna Fáil would like to thank the Chairman and members of the Joint Committee on Justice and Equality for their support at the launch of the Oireachtas report on the recognition of Irish sign language for the deaf community, which recommends that the Bill put forward by Fianna Fáil, which I hope will come before this House next week, be passed.
We are disappointed that in recent weeks the schedule has been very light on legislation. I am aware the Leader is trying to get legislation into the House. I spoke to the leader of the Fianna Fáil group and to our spokesperson on justice in the Dáil, and we will be pushing for the Corporate Manslaughter Bill to be brought before this House in the next two weeks. I ask the Leader to arrange with the Department of Justice and Equality that it would arrange for the Minister or the Minister of State to be present to allow Bill complete Second Stage in the next two weeks and move on to Committee Stage. Nine years ago, the Law Reform Commission proposed a corporate manslaughter Bill, and it has not progressed one iota. We hope the Leader will find time to progress that issue to allow us take Committee Stage next January.
I am sure the Leas-Chathaoirleach, the Leader and Members of the House will join me in sending best wishes to Senator Catherine Ardagh on her wedding tomorrow in Donegal. I hope the Child of Prague is put out because if it is a day like today, it will not work.
I know the Leas-Chathaoirleach is a Killarney Legion supporter but Dr. Crokes are playing the Kenmare District Board on Sunday. We have not been in a county final since 1987, and I hope we beat Dr. Crokes.
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I would normally correct the Senator.
Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
As a Legion supporter, I am sure the Leas-Chathaoirleach hopes we beat them as well.
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
That is not correct, but anyway.
Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Great rivals over in Killarney. My enemy's enemy is my friend-----
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I should not say from the Chair that this man likes making misleading statements. No further interruptions.
Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The new assistance for first-time buyers will not work. All it will do is make builders richer. If that is the Government's answer to the problem, they do not know the question. Sean Barrett, who is a former Member of this House and a leading economist, has told me it is not a solution to the problem. The problem is supply. We need a better solution to the one that has been put forward. In that regard, Members on this side of the House will be proposing a number of amendments to the finance Bill.
Of equal concern is the child care provision. That is an issue Members on all sides of the House raised in that it must work in a better way for people. In some instances, people will benefit by only 50 cent per hour. That is merely a drop in the ocean. It is better than a kick in the head, as described by some journalists, but it is not good enough. It does not take into account anomalies with regard to babies and toddlers who require to be minded by a child minder. There are only 160 child minders registered with Tusla, so where will all those people come from if we make it open to child minders?
I express a word of caution. We have 30,000 fewer civil servants than we had in 2008, yet next year's wage bill is €20 billion. That is only €700 million less than it was in 2008. Have we learned anything over the past number of years? Have we reformed our system? We have fewer public servants but, very shortly, the wage bill will be the same.
Joan Freeman (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I want to speak about the €35 million allocated to mental health. The announcement was not specific in terms of where the money was to be allocated. My response to that is that this is typical. It is a pacifier for the public in that €35 million sounds great, but the amount has not increased when funding for every other Department has increased. Every Government gives the same amount of money every year, but it is not allocated for any specific area. For example, gardaí, nursing and teaching posts will increase, but nothing has been allocated specifically to mental health.
I call on the Leader to ask the Department of Finance why there is such vagueness about this matter. Will the Government do what it did last year, namely, remove a chunk of money and allocate it where it wants? I understand the Health Service Executive will come up with a plan in the coming weeks, but the budget will have been forgotten by then. Is that deliberate to allow for chunks of money to be removed from the mental health budget in the hope that no one will notice? No one in the Government will care. I call on the Leader to invite representatives of the Department of Finance to the House to allow us get clear answers on the way the money is being allocated and to explain why we were overlooked in the mental health budget.
Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
On Saturday, aircraft from the Saudi-led coalition bombed a community hall in Sana'a, Yemen's capital city, where thousands of people were gathered for a funeral. The aircraft struck the hall four times, killing more than 140 people and wounding over 500. One local health official described the aftermath as a lake of blood. Multiple bomb fragments at the scene appeared to confirm the use of United States produced NK-82 guided bombs. These are 500 pound bombs produced by Raytheon, in the United States. ITV news correspondent Neil Connery visited the site and confirmed that evidence.
Saudi Arabia's bombing campaign in Yemen began in March 2015 after Houthi rebels deposed the US and Saudi backed dictator. Since the war began, Saudi Arabia has intentionally targeted numerous homes, factories, markets, schools and hospitals. Given the larger number of US military Hercules C-130 and C-40 Clipper transport aircraft that have been transiting through Shannon Airport-----
Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
-----and I saw them myself last Sunday, there is the likelihood that some, or even many, of the munitions being supplied to Saudi Arabia by the US are passing through Shannon Airport.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It is disgraceful.
Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
In addition, the US is supplying most of the mid-air refuelling planes for the Royal Saudi Air Force that is bombing Yemen. In June of this year, I asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs about a number of US mid-air refuelling planes that have passed through Shannon Airport. The Government denied these planes are engaged in NATO exercises, therefore, it is increasingly likely they are in the process of being delivered to refuel Saudi war planes that are bombing Yemen. Ireland is almost certainly assisting the US and Saudi Arabia to kill thousands of innocent people in Yemen.
Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Hear, hear.
Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
When I raised the issue of Shannon last week, the Leader stated:
The issue raised by the Senator regarding American troops has been well documented... The important point is that the airport is at the gateway to Europe.
With respect to the Leader, that is not the important point. The important point is that we are assisting the US and Saudi Arabia in massive atrocities.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
And have done for years.
Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
That is a point of shame. We have not had a debate in this Chamber regarding Shannon. I ask the Leader again today to invite the Minister for Foreign Affairs to the House to allow us to have that important debate. What is he afraid of? He will have to do better than mouth platitudes about Shannon being a gateway to Europe. Right now, it is a gateway to the deaths of thousands of innocent Yemeni citizens and it is high time the Leader, and his Government, stopped turning a blind eye to what is really going on at Shannon.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Well said. Senator Gavan would want to watch the Shannon councillors. They were what defeated it in here.
Grace O'Sullivan (Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
EU trade ministers will meet in Luxembourg next Tuesday, 18 October to decide whether to support the provision application of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement with Canada. Will the Leader ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Mary Mitchell O'Connor, if she has taken into account the motion passed in the Seanad on 5 October which called on the Government neither to agree to sign up to nor to authorise the provisional application of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between Canada and the EU or any associated invocation of Article 218.5 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and, furthermore, to uphold Article 29.5.2° of the Constitution which states, "The State shall not be bound by any international agreement involving a charge upon public funds unless the terms of the agreement shall have been approved by Dáil Éireann." Will the passing of this motion influence her decision on signing the provisional application? As time is of the essence, is it possible to get a written response from the Minister before Tuesday next, 18 October?
If the Government is to ignore the decision of this House on matters of this level of importance, what exactly is the purpose of the Seanad? The Government is accountable to the Dáil - we know this - but democracy and sovereignty should be accountable in this House. Yesterday, we discussed and sent to Committee the Seanad Bill to improve the functioning and role of the Chamber in the Irish political system. Could the Government send a worse signal other than to disregard the motion passed the other week?
Kevin Humphreys (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I am seeking clarity from the Leader and probably from the Seanad leader of Fianna Fáil as well in respect of the budget, in particular, social welfare payments. There seems to be some mystery over exactly when the payment will be made. We hear it will be in March. I am reminded of the old saying that we have yet to hear which March. Is it to be paid in the first week in March or the last week? If it is to be paid in the last week of March, it is an additional saving to the Exchequer of €28 million. It costs €7 million per week. This is the first time I have ever seen a budget presented to the Dáil without any real clarity on when social welfare payments are to be made.
The Taoiseach and the Minister for Social Protection have been challenged on this in the media and they have failed to answer. Fianna Fáil is constantly claiming that it has negotiated all the increases and payments. Perhaps the Fianna Fáil representatives will now tell us, through the Leader, exactly when this payment is to be made. We cannot make head nor tail of the budget. We need to know how much it is going to cost.
I thank the Leader for his response after I raised the issue of the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Bill 2015. I was heartened at the way the Leader responded. He said he would ask the Minister to come to the House. I am keen to assist the Leader. Ministers have no choice. Under section 14 of the Act they are required to come to the House in December. When the Leader is informing Ministers that they must attend the Seanad to give an account of themselves and their Departments in respect of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, will he ask them to afford the House the courtesy to furnish their statements at least two weeks before they attend to allow for proper engagement?
Climate change is the biggest challenge facing this country and indeed the world. Two weeks ago and last week we heard about the impact it has on farming communities. We are facing into a rough winter with possibly more people's homes being flooded. We need proper engagement in this House. As a matter of courtesy to the House, Ministers should furnish us with their statements such that we can properly engage with Ministers.
I pay credit to the former Minister of State, Senator Paudie Coffey, who is sitting beside the Leader and who was involved in drafting the Bill. There is a strong role for the House to hold Ministers to account in respect of their actions on greenhouse gas emissions. I look forward to the Ministers attending the House in December. As a matter of courtesy to the House they should publish their statements at least two weeks in advance to allow for proper engagement.
Ray Butler (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
What we are seeing unfold this morning in Aleppo through media pictures is another modern-day Holocaust in our midst. Russian air forces and Syrian air and army forces are bombarding an area no bigger than the Phoenix Park.
Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It is just like Yemen.
Ray Butler (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
In one area alone more than 200,000 women and children are caught and they are being slaughtered. If people had seen the pictures on Sky this morning, they would have broken down and cried. It is an absolute disgrace.
I call on the Leader and the Government to go to the Russian Embassy in Dublin and tell the relevant people that Ireland will not stand by and watch this unfold.
Ray Butler (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Anyone looking at media reports coming out of Aleppo would be horrified by the slaughter of innocents. We can talk and waffle all we want, but we need action. I need all Members to write an e-mail to the Russian Embassy this morning and tell those responsible that we will not stand by and let this happen.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Circulate it and we will all do it.
Keith Swanick (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
At the end of December in the Dublin north-east regional health forum a motion was put forward relating to dental health in children. The motion called on the HSE to make available sufficient funding to ensure all primary schoolchildren receive a minimum dental service in second and sixth class and, ideally, in fourth class as well. The motion comes as a result of the problem posed by tooth decay in children.
Tooth decay is a major oral health problem in most industrialised countries affecting 60% to 90% of all children. It remains the most common chronic disease in children aged six to 11 years and adolescents aged 12 to 19 years. Tooth decay is four times more common than asthma among adolescents aged 14 to 17 years. Cavities, even in children who do not yet have permanent teeth, can have serious and lasting complications such as pain, tooth abscess, tooth loss, broken teeth, chewing problems and serious infection.
My party colleague, Dr. Claire O'Driscoll, has said that realistically, once children start getting teeth they should be seen annually by a dental professional. Given that almost one in three young children drink sugary and sweetened drinks every day and that 411 million litres of sugary sweetened drinks were sold in Ireland in 2014, it is clear the need for dental professionals is only going to increase. According to the chief executive of the Irish Dental Association, Fintan Hourihan, the population of children under the age of 16 years in Ireland has increased by 20% in the past decade to 1.1 million. However, the number of dentists tasked with looking after these young people has fallen by 20% in recent years due to the recruitment embargo. The result is that a large number of primary schoolchildren are missing school screening and their dental problems are not being identified in the early stages. This can have knock-on effects with regard to emergency cases in later life.
As in the case of so many preventable diseases, these problems are a strain on our embattled health service. Irregular access to dental care results in higher use of emergency services. We all know we need to make smarter use of our health service. We need to use preventative measures. We need to stop the problems before they really start. Here is a prime example of where we can do just that.
Victor Boyhan (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I wish to raise one simple issue relating to the national harbour and ports policy. The policy document now covers national ports and harbours throughout the country. The document has gone through a number of Ministers. Most recently, the responsible Ministers in the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport have been Deputy Varadkar, Deputy Paschal Donohoe and now Deputy Shane Ross.
Fundamental changes have been made to the national harbour and ports policy. A decision was made to take a number of ports termed as being of regional significance out of the control of the Department. This so happens to fall under the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport. This is where the Minister, Deputy Shane Ross, comes in.The transitional period has not been smooth, with the single exception of Wicklow. I stand open to correction on that.
I am very familiar with Dún Laoghaire Harbour Company because I was a director there for ten years. It is important that the Minister, Deputy Ross, come before the House to explain the status of the roll-out of the national ports policy and, more importantly, his failure to appoint directors to vacancies on a number of ports within his remit. I want to give the Minister an opportunity to come in and be questioned about the matter rather than to read every week in The Sunday Business Postabout the 30 or 40 appointments relating to his brief that have never been made for some peculiar reason or about somebody taking the moral high ground. I want an opportunity to ask him questions in this Chamber. It is very important. I also want to find out about due diligence. There is very expensive due diligence going on in a number of ports with regard to the preparation of this and yet there seems to be no action. Why is it that three Ministers with responsibility for harbours have failed to proceed with the transfer of harbours, which is Government policy? It is really important to have the Minister, Deputy Ross, in here early to explain the issues. In particular, I want to make reference to Dún Laoghaire Harbour Company, which has four vacancies on its board. The harbour is falling apart so it is really important that the Minister comes before the House to outline when he will sign the necessary documentation for the transfer of the port from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.
Tim Lombard (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I want to discuss the proposed merger of Cork City Council and Cork County Council. There has been debate about this issue for many years. It is a topic that has been debated for over a decade. The Alf Smiddy report, which was published last year, recommended a merger. We are now having a review of that report. There is genuine concern that we are reviewing another report. There should only be one local authority in Cork. I will park that view for now and say that we need to look again at the process and at what we are doing. The executives and members of the two local authorities have made their views known, so it is about time we ask the public its view. We need to hold a plebiscite. The people of Cork city and county have to be asked whether they want one local authority. That is the key. Everybody is having a say except the public. It is inappropriate and if we were to have a plebiscite we would have a decent debate on the topics and issues that affect the people in Cork. We have seen mergers happen in places such as Waterford, Tipperary and Limerick and these worked to some degree. We need to engage in this debate and we need to get everyone involved. This debate is being run by academics, executives of the two local authorities and, to a lesser degree, public representatives. The people are being kept out of it. A plebiscite is the only appropriate avenue now for a genuine discussion and hopefully come up with a conclusion that can be backed by the people of Cork.
Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I commend to the House the report published this morning by the Joint Committee on Justice and Equality on the recognition of Irish Sign Language as an official language of the State. Our committee heard from the Irish Deaf Society a fortnight ago. Its presentation, on the back of the very important work of Senator Mark Daly on the issue, had a profound impact on the members of the committee. The relevant Bill is awaiting Second Stage in the Seanad. I hope it will come before us sooner rather than later and that all Senators will support it. We have the opportunity, through legislation, to support, encourage and, ultimately, empower our deaf citizens.
Agus cúrsaí teanga luaite agam, impím arís ar a ngCeannaire go mbeadh seal díospóireachta againn leis an Aire ó thaobh chúrsaí Gaeilge de. Tá díomá agus fearg anois tagtha ar phobal na Gaeilge mar gheall ar an bhfógraíocht a rinneadh le linn an bhuiséid an tseachtain seo. An tseachtain seo caite, bhíomar uilig thall ag an imeacht a bhí ag Conradh na Gaeilge in Óstán Buswells. Chonaic mé roinnt de na grianghraif ón imeacht. Táim ag smaoineamh go ndúramar uilig go ndéanfadh muid ár seacht ndícheall ar son na Gaeilge, ar son phobal na Gaeilge agus ar son phobail na nGaeltachtaí ar fud na tíre. Mar a chonaic muid i bhfógairt an bhuiséid, tá laghdú de 9% anois tagtha ar an mbuiséad do chúrsaí Gaeilge. Is cinnte go mbeidh tionchar thar a bheith diúltach agus gasta ar an bpobal Gaelach mar gheall ar an gciorrú seo atá déanta ag Fianna Fáil agus Fine Gael.
Cuireann sé sin béim ar an bhfáth go bhfuil an tAire de dhíth, go mbeadh seal againn na cúrsaí seo a phléigh agus go mbeadh muid in ann impí ar an Aire agus an Rialtas an cinneadh seo a thiontú thart. Tá an díospóireacht de dhíth ionas go mbeimid in ann an tábhacht eacnamaíochta, sóisialta agus cultúrtha a thagann de bharr na Gaeilge a aithint i réimse leathan den saol, chomh maith le na buntáistí a thugann sé dúinn, go háirithe don aos óg ar fud na tíre. Glacaim leis, mar a dúirt sé cheana, go ndéanfaidh an Ceannaire a sheacht ndícheall an tAire a thabhairt isteach. Tá súil agam go mbeimid in ann é sin a dhéanamh chomh luath agus gur féidir.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Will the Leader consider a re-examination of the Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act 2013? There is a housing crisis on this island. Approximately 11,000 properties have been taken under judicial court procedure due to the implementation of this Act. One of the consequences of this is the fast-tracking of thousands of cases under a thing called the Circuit Court procedure. The Circuit Court sounds fine but it is the country registrar and not a judge who decides these issues. Many of these registrars are not really familiar with this area of the law. They are known as the eviction courts.
Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
That is not true at all.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I am making a statement.
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
All Senators will have an opportunity to speak.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senator Mulherin can make her point but I am making mine and I have been well briefed-----
Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I am just telling Senator Norris it is inaccurate.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
-----by a constituent on this. I am seeking a debate so my friend and colleague can make her point as I will make mine, very forcefully. People are hurting because of this. Cases are adjudicated by county registrars, many of whom do not have familiarity with this area. They do not always adhere to Circuit Court rules either. That is the evidence I have been given. In most counties, except Dublin and Cork, the county registrar is also the sheriff. They get a 7.5% premium in these judgments. There is obviously a conflict of interest. If one stands to gain financially from a decision against a family in a property case, then of course there is a conflict of interest. The Act needs to be reviewed. It has been in operation since 2013. We should now look at it in light of the case history. All I am asking for is an examination so people who take a different view can put it on the record. I have been very strongly briefed on this. Anything that can be done to alleviate the situation of people in these difficulties should be done.
Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I will leave the Leader to answer that question but I will just say that-----
Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
-----cases coming before the county-----
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It is a matter for the Leader.
Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
When cases come before the country registrar, it means everyone involved has consented to that happening.
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Senator should deal with her own item.
Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
If there is opposition to it, the matter will go before a judge.
I want to highlight the issue of the looming deadline for spreading slurry. Farmers have until midnight on Saturday, 15 October, to spread slurry.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
There is enough of it spread around this place.
Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It is not really a funny matter for people who are trying to contend with the wet weather that has made it impossible to spread slurry in an environmentally-friendly fashion. The situation is that the deadline will not be extended. A decision has been made that there will be no blanket derogation sought from the EU. At this juncture, there are farmers in parts of the country who will not make the deadline. There is an exceptional circumstances procedure whereby if animal welfare is in question, farmers can make a case for a derogation of sorts.Exceptional circumstances would be, for example, where animals are about to be housed and a holding tank for slurry is about to overflow, with environmental consequences. In the next few days, these farmers need to contact the district veterinary office in their county and make their situation known, that they will not be able to meet the deadline due to the weather and other circumstances. It is very important that farmers move on it now in order that they will not be in a catch-22 situation in which they have a full slurry holding tank, they cannot spread the slurry and they have animals they are trying to house. Their animals will be in a desperate situation and there will potentially be other environmental consequences if slurry tanks overflow. It is a very important issue for farmers in particular parts of the country.
Ned O'Sullivan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
One of the disappointing aspects of the budget was its silence on local government, particularly regarding providing funding for the restoration of town councils. Members will know that Fine Gael, in the previous Government, showed fair contempt for democracy. It attempted to silence this House, which did not work out. The then Minister, Phil Hogan, had more success in silencing democracy at local level by abolishing town councils. Members will know that our rural towns are struggling. In my town, Listowel, despite the best efforts of a very go-ahead business community, there are many empty premises for sale and to let, and very little inward investment. The town councils were very important assets to towns such as Listowel and the Cathaoirleach's town of Killarney. My party, Fianna Fáil, is committed to restoring town government when we return to office. Our spokesman, Deputy Barry Cowen, has a very clear document outlining how we will do it. Over the next couple of years of the Government's term, I hope the issue of local government will come to the fore again. I hope there will be all-party support for Fianna Fáil's position on restoring town councils.
Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
In response to Senator David Norris, it is important to highlight the case dealt with by the Court of Appeal. The matter was referred by way a case stated from the High Court. The Senator is right that it was in relation to the Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act. It was decided that such cases could not be brought before the Circuit Court but could be brought before the High Court. One case involved a landlord who owned six properties in respect of which repayments were not being made to the financial institution. If they are not being paid to the financial institution, the taxpayer is paying. While I am very concerned when a family home is repossessed, I am not concerned in the same way in cases where landlords are collecting rents but not making repayments to financial institutions, which is happening.
Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It is important. In my experience of dealing with county registrars, in any case in which the property owner is not consenting, the matter is referred to court for decision, as Senator Mulherin said. The county registrar does not take the decision. County registrars do not receive 7.5% when they give a decision. The issue does not arise in the scenario in which they make a decision on such a matter. They are not entitled to the 7.5% if the bank repossesses the property by consent. The 7.5% arises only when the county registrar acts as a sheriff. It is important to clarify this. I have done a detailed reply which I have already given to Senator Norris. I have given a reply to the queries raised.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Where did you give it?
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
You can have that chat outside.
Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I sent it in early August. We need to clarify the role of the House in new legislation coming before the House. During the previous Seanad, a number of new Bills were introduced in the Seanad and carried forward to the other House. I am concerned that we seem to be on the back foot and new legislation is not being introduced here. I am wondering if it can be changed. We need to expedite a number of Bills, and the Seanad would be the appropriate place to move them.
Senator Mark Daly said Fine Gael was getting it wrong regarding housing. He also said we were getting it wrong regarding jobs. We have created 160,000 jobs since 2011. He also said we were getting it wrong regarding the economy. When we took over, our expenditure was €20 billion more than our income. The deficit is now down to less than 1%. I would take his concern about the grant with a grain of salt.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
You would need more than a grain.
Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Senator does not have to listen to me. He should listen to the economists.
Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It is important that we support first-time buyers, and it is the appropriate support.
Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
There may be cracks showing in the perfect marriage, but that is for another day.
Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It is more of a casual relationship.
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Steady on. No locker room commentary now.
Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I will try not to. This week and in the weeks ahead, many people will receive letters informing them that their loans with Ulster Bank, many of which are in arrears, have been transferred to Cerberus. Cerberus is a by-word for murky deals and money lost to the public purse. Project Eagle is an example of the massive discount given in the utmost secrecy. Many of these loans involve farmers and small businesses which have experienced difficulties during the financial crisis. No figure was released as to the discount at which the vulture fund bought the loans, and we will probably never know. Once again, we have no idea how much of a haircut the company received. In Britain, there was a parliamentary investigation into the sale of Northern Rock, totalling £13 billion. It failed to pass on reductions in interest rates to its customers.
Now that the Government talks about our recovery, it is deeply worrying that many people, who have attempted to recover, are at the mercy of ruthless vulture funds. We need more concrete action to help those in mortgage distress, and this can be done. It was up to my colleague, Deputy Pearse Doherty to introduce a Bill last week to remove the Statute of Limitations regarding complaints against financial institutions. We in Sinn Féin are here to find the progress and solutions regardless of the Government's inaction on it. It would be worthwhile if we could have the Minister or Minister of State for Finance in the House in the near future to outline the Government's plans to protect mortgage holders from these vulture funds.
Frank Feighan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I join my colleagues in calling for a debate with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade on the atrocities in Yemen and Syria. Ireland is very well placed as an independent arbiter to try to highlight these very difficult and gut-wrenching horrors. I look forward to the debate. We need to bring the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to the House.
A map of the island of Ireland shows motorways going to Belfast and Galway. There is an area between Galway up to Donegal, Sligo, Roscommon and over to Belfast that has no motorway or dual carriageway. We talk about the A5 and other roads. If we are serious about bringing our country together, we must bring these up to dual carriageway or motorway capacity. While I can drive from Galway to Dublin in two hours, to come from Boyle and Roscommon one has to pass through two or three towns where there is traffic. This could help us get further jobs in the areas.If you can be within two hours or an hour and a half of a major city, it will make sense. I know some work has been done but I do not think the NRA has been at the forefront in treating it with the respect and urgency it needs. I would be delighted if the Leader could ask the Minister to come to the House to discuss those few outstanding roads issues.
Brian Ó Domhnaill (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I support Senator Feighan in respect of his comments on interurban roads. He is dead right. The interurban road network serves most regions of the country well but the north west is not served at all. There was a plan involving the A5 route with a commitment from both Governments, North and South, to provide funding for the provision of a new 2+1 road network linking Donegal and Derry with Dublin. Of course, that was shelved in 2011 by the then Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Varadkar, who cut the funding commitment by the previous Government from over €400 million to around €50 million, which was to be used for design purposes. I am not having a go at the previous Government about this. I am saying that there seems to be a lack of commitment on both sides of the Border with regard to the A5. The shift in Northern Ireland appears to be towards the link road from Derry linking Belfast rather than the road going through Northern Ireland linking Donegal to Dublin. I would really welcome it if the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport could come to the House to discuss this issue.
The NRA is now known as Transport Infrastructure Ireland. I suppose it would provide the funding but the difficulty is that the capital funding has not been made available even in the 2017 budget to provide the commitments that are required. There is a need for political will on both sides of the Border to put this back on the agenda. I am glad that Senator Feighan raised the matter because it is an important issue. I would welcome it if the Leader could bring the Minister in here not just to talk about that route but to look at other interurban routes as well and bypasses around major towns. The Ballybofey-Stranorlar bypass in Macroom in west Cork is an example of a bypass that has not been progressed but is at design stage. When will the funding be made available to progress projects like these? Perhaps we could have a debate on all of those issues.
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I thank the 17 Senators who contributed to the Order of Business this morning. I join with Senator Mark Daly in wishing our colleague and friend, Senator Ardagh, and her future husband every success, joy and happiness tomorrow. I hope the Child of Prague is out because the rain this morning certainly would not help. Senator Ardagh did order me on Tuesday not to mention it but Senator Daly broke protocol so on behalf of the House, I feel that we should congratulate her.
The Bill on the recognition of Irish Sign Language for the deaf community will be in the House next week. I join with Senators Ó Donnghaile and Daly in congratulating the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Justice and Equality on the publication of the report today. I hope we will have support from the House next week. It is important to have that debate.
It is beyond my gift to bring the Corporate Manslaughter Bill in but we have asked the Department of Justice and Equality about it. Senator Daly raised the issue of child care. The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs will be in the House next week to discuss the issue.
With regard to the first-time buyer's grant, I do not want to provoke a fight this morning but we have come through the worst recession in the history of the State. The supply of housing is at rock bottom. We had a very good debate in the House yesterday. We must build, supply and ensure that first-time buyers can access credit and get on the property ladder, which they cannot do at the moment. The Government is committed to facilitating the building of houses and providing first-time buyers with this grant. Academics disagree as academics will do but the important point is that we have an incentivised market. We need people to be able to come in and buy second-hand houses, which is why the home renovation scheme is there, but it is important that people are able to access credit.
In response to Senator McFadden, I have met with the Government Chief Whip regarding the initiation of legislation. The Government legislative programme commits to 25 Bills being published this session. It is important that Bills are initiated in this House because that way, the legislative backlog will not happen. Part of the difficulty, which some of the commentariat do not understand and do not write about, is that we have pre-legislative scrutiny on lots of legislation. That was a very positive departure in the last Dáil and Seanad but it means that the process slows down. It makes for a better parliamentary system. As somebody who chaired the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health and Children in the last Oireachtas, I think pre-legislative scrutiny is very important. The Senator is right and all of us agree that there needs to be more legislation initiated in this House. We have asked for that.
Senator Freeman raised the very important issue of mental health. The important point here is that there is an increase in the Government's commitment to mental health. The Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy McEntee, has been very successful in promoting mental health. An extra €35 million will be allocated to mental health services this year in addition to the €35 million provided last year, which is the base funding for mental health. We have the commitment to the Central Mental Hospital in terms of the capital plan and the construction of a new forensic mental health service in Portrane.
The important point, which we need to put into perspective regarding the delivery of the money, is how the HSE allocates that money in its service plan. Therein lies the difficulty in the area of health. Government has allocated €14 billion to the Department of Health, which is the highest ever spend. It is in excess of what it was when Deputy Micheál Martin ran out of it and when Mary Harney was stuck there because none of you would take it. It is now €14 billion. Senator Daly referenced the increase in numbers and wants to see more services provided, something with which we all agree, but that costs money. How is that money allocated? The big question we should be asking of the HSE beyond this Chamber is how it apportions and allocates that money. The Government gives that money, the Department of Health allocates it and the HSE spends it in some cases. I think that is a matter for the service plan.
Senator Gavan again raised the issue of Shannon Airport. I can tell him quite clearly that I am not afraid of anything because I am very clear about it. Our neutrality has not been compromised or been altered.
Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It has been completely compromised. We are transiting bombs that will be landed on the Yemeni people.
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senator Gavan must find another way of raising that. The Leader to respond without interruption.
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I would refer Senator Gavan to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Public Service Oversight and Petitions which held hearings and heard from witnesses during the last Oireachtas. I might be wrong but I think Deputy Tóibín chaired the committee, although it might have been Senator Mac Lochlainn. I cannot remember. It was one or the other. I think Senator Mac Lochlainn chaired it. I would be happy to have a debate. There has been a lot of protestation by Senator Gavan about that and I would be very clear about that. Where I would join with Senator Gavan is with regard to the condemnation of the bombings and the killing of people in Yemen. There can be no ambiguity in our expression of, not just outrage and solidarity, but also condemnation and the need to see a resolution-----
Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
We helped to transit those bombs.
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I do not agree with the Senator about that.
Senator Grace O'Sullivan raised the issue of CETA. I would be happy to invite the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation to the House to address the points made by the Senator.
Senator Humphreys raised the issue of the payment of social welfare. He referenced savings of €28 million. For the first time, this Government was clear. I will answer the Senator's question. The ambiguity around the date is very simple. This Government wanted to give a €5 increase to everybody. Some people did not want to give an increase to anybody. If one reads the Sinn Féin alternative budget, one can see that it was giving less to people. I have read the Sinn Féin documentation. It is proposing to give less.
Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senator Buttimer is wrong.
Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The figure is €5.70.
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It is proposing to give less.
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
We can have a debate on that another day.
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
As a consequence of the budget, 840,000 people will benefit.
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
We cannot have a budget debate today.
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I accept that but I am replying on the Order of Business. Up to 840,000 people will benefit from the social welfare increases in the budget. It is important we welcome that.
Kevin Humphreys (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
When will these measures be introduced?
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
It will be in March. They will be introduced either in the finance or the social welfare Bill. What Senators should welcome and focus on is the fact all people on social protection will receive an increase of €5. This will restore and uplift the fortunes of people.
Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
How much are Deputies and Ministers getting?
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
And so they should. It is ridiculous that there should be attacks on what Deputies and Senators are getting. They should be paid appropriately.
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Order. That does not arise today.
Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
They are paid well.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
No, they are not paid enough.
Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
They are surely. Greedy. Is it not enough money for us?
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
At the risk of rising to Senator Niall Ó Donnghaile's heckling-----
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Leader should not rise.
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
-----but his party is changing its average industrial policy wage for its Members. They will also see an increase.
Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
There has been no decision on that.
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
They cannot have it both ways.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
There are a lot of bloody hypocrites among their lot.
Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
We proposed the same pay decrease in the North.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Look at all the money Sinn Féin took from Westminster. Its MPs took their allowances but did not even show their faces in the place.
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senators are out of order.
Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
People should not be making false statements.
Kevin Humphreys (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
On a small point of order, if this House is to be taken seriously, then the past several minutes does not help. I know it is a difficult job to chair proceedings. However, if we want the public to take us seriously, we have to act in a serious way.
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Okay. Will the Leader respond without provoking anyone?
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I will rise above the heckling.
Senator Kevin Humphreys made an important point on keeping focus on our climate change obligations. I have no difficulty in having the Minister come to the House on the matter. However, I do not think we will get the reports or speeches two weeks in advance.
Kevin Humphreys (Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
We could get some in advance.
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senators Ray Butler and Frank Feighan raised the issue of Aleppo. I would be happy to have the Minister come to the House on this matter. It is important we put pressure on Russia and the United States to find a resolution to this. It is important we see both powers not scoring political points because people are being killed there while the survivors have nothing to look forward to in their futures. It is important we keep pressure on this matter. Senator Norris also spoke on that.
Senator Keith Swanick raised the important issue of tooth decay and youth dental treatment. The Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Varadkar, has provided €2.5 million for the restoration of dental and optical treatment benefits. This issue has been raised for some time by the Irish Dental Association and its fine chief executive officer, Mr. Fintan Hourihan. It was a Fianna Fáil Minister, Mary Hanafin, who cut that benefit. It is right to restore it. The potential fundamental problems of the future must be tackled now. I agree with Senator Swanick on this matter and am happy to work with him on this.
Senator Victor Boyhan raised the issue of harbours and ports, a critical part of our infrastructure. The Port of Cork is a very important gateway for the city and the rest of Munster.
Senator Tim Lombard raised the contentious issue of the report on the merger of the two Cork local authorities. I welcome the appointment by the Minister, Deputy Simon Coveney, of a review of the report group. I am not so sure Senator Tim Lombard's call for a plebiscite is correct and I will respectfully disagree with him on that.
Senator Niall Ó Donnghaile raised the issue of the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and Irish Sign Language. Beidh an tAire Stáit, an Teachta Kyne, istigh sa Teach go luath i Mí na Samhna. As for the budget for the Irish language, the Minister has given an increase in the Gaeltacht support schemes of €440,000, an improvement to the tune of €250,000 for the Irish language support scheme, an extra €250,000 allocated to the 20-year strategy for the Irish language, along with an increase in the budget of An Coimisinéir Teanga. There has also been a €1 million increase in funding for Údarás na Gaeltachta, along with €9.275 million to assist the islands and €13.29 million to the agencies under the remit of An Coimisinéir Teanga. The Minister is committed to the Irish language, as all Members are. My biggest regret, as I have said before, is that having done leaving certificate honours Irish, I do not have the gift of comhrá. I do try.
Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Tá ag éirí go maith leat.
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Minister is committed to the language.
Both Senators Michelle Mulherin and Colm Burke replied to Senator David Norris's remarks. I would be happy to have that discussion about the Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act 2013 with the Minister.
David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I thank the Leader. There is much concern about it.
Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Senator has got his response.
Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Senator Michelle Mulherin raised the issue of slurry spreading. There are several issues linked to that such as animal welfare and environmental impact. I hope the Minister will look at giving that derogation.
Senator Ned O'Sullivan raised the issue of rural and regional town councils. A review of these is taking place. He is stretching it a small bit when he blames the abolition of town councils for the fact many of our towns have idle shops and no factories. He might look at his own party's policy when it was in government which caused the recession that forced many shops and factories to close down. I accept his point for the need for a return of some town councils. In the budget, we have seen an allocation to expand national rural development schemes, an additional €8 million allocated to town and village regeneration, along with the important maintenance of the 9% VAT rate for the hospitality sector.
I have already answered Senator Colm Burke's point about Bills in the House.
Senator Rose Conway-Walsh raised the issue of Ulster Bank and Cerberus. I would be happy to have the Minister come to the House on that.
Senators Frank Feighan and Senator Brian Ó Domhnaill raised the issue of transport and made good points on it. It is important the Minister, Deputy Shane Ross, comes to the House. My office has put a request for him to attend the House.