Order of Business (Resumed).
Will the Tánaiste indicate what is the problem with the legislation for the regulation of charities? Has the Government had an opportunity to consider the European Union ruling to the effect that donations allowable for tax purposes may now be made in respect of a charity registered anywhere in Europe? As we have no charities legislation, it leaves a degree of vulnerability in regard to Irish charities for which tax relief is important. What exactly is the problem?
Comment on this
The Deputy must not have been present when the Taoiseach dealt with this issue yesterday and referred to the complexities which have arisen.
Comment on this
The issue does not come under my remit, it comes under the jurisdiction of the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
Comment on this
The Bill was in the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform for seven or eight years.
Comment on this
The Taoiseach explained clearly yesterday all the difficulties involved. The Bill will be published next year.
Comment on this
Surprise, surprise. Another outbreak of silence. It is the Government's responsibility.
Comment on this
I do not know whether tackling corruption in Government is still part of the Progressive Democrats agenda, but when will the Criminal Justice (UN Convention against Corruption) Bill be published?
Comment on this
In light of yesterday's announcement by HSE officials that the Teamwork report will be rolled out nationally, when will time be given to discuss the report in the House? Its serious implications are not for County Monaghan alone.
Comment on this
Will the long-promised pharmacy Bill address the anomalous three-year rule that affects non-Irish trained pharmacists? Will the Bill be before the Dáil this session? It has been promised several times and while I received answers stating it would appear shortly, that has not happened.
Comment on this
The Tánaiste set up a committee to inquire into the regulation of auctioneering and he confirmed to the House that he will introduce legislation in that respect. Has the Tánaiste reconsidered that?
Comment on this
No specific legislation has been promised, but the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform is sponsoring a major initiative in this matter. On a non-statutory basis, we are making preparations for a new regime for auctioneers. When the committee reports to the Department, we will prepare legislation to give effect to the reform programme.