Responses on investment and legislation
The Leader addresses Irish bond investment, AVCs, education-board legislation and health-service activity, while referring communications charges to the Adjournment.
Senator Quinn raised the matter of the American investment fund that has bought up €8.5 billion in Irish bonds and the confidence this shows in Ireland. He suggested we should have that confidence ourselves, including those who invest their money in new business and act as entrepreneurs.
Senator Feargal Quinn has been to the fore in advocating that AVCs should be allowed to be used for that purpose. The decision to accede to this request in the budget has been welcomed by all.
Senator Fidelma Healy Eames also referred to the slaughter of innocent children and teachers in Connecticut.
Senator Thomas Byrne proposed an amendment to the Order of Business which I do not propose to accept. The Minister for Social Protection will be in the House to debate the Social Welfare Bill 2012 and the issues arising can be discussed in that context. I do not see why we need to arrange a meeting 15 minutes prior to the debate on the Bill.
Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh welcomed - wholeheartedly of course - the septic tank grant.
Comment on this
In regard to the communications charge, that is a matter which could be raised on the Adjournment.
Senator Diarmuid Wilson asked about the educational training boards legislation. It will be brought before the House in late January or early February.
Senator Colm Burke spoke about the massive increases in numbers and procedures in the health service for several years, including the increase in the number of outpatient appointments. A lot has been done, but, as the slogan goes, there is a lot more to be done in that regard.