Mangan report arrangements
The Leader announces debates on the Mangan report for the following Tuesday and Wednesday, while Senators dispute access to and alleged leaks of the report.
Senator Darragh O’Brien asked about the Mangan report. I have arranged for the Minister to come to the House next Tuesday and Wednesday to debate it.
Senators Ivana Bacik, Jillian van Turnhout, Aideen Hayden and many others referred to the report on the Magdalen laundries. I have arranged for a debate on it next Wednesday.
Senator Jillian van Turnhout also referred to the Mangan report and the leaking of reports. I agree totally with her. There have been a number of leaks about various reports. There were leaks on the Mangan report, as well as on the HSE report in Galway last week. Such leaks should be investigated thoroughly by the Garda because they assist nobody.
I will find out for Senator Jillian van Turnhout exactly when the family leave Bill will be brought to the House. It is on the list.
Senators Mullen and O'Sullivan referred to development levies, the responsibilities of homeowners and developers and so on. There was a case in Wicklow about which we read in the newspapers. Wicklow County Council initiated a separate legal action against the original developer seeking payment of the full amount of the development contribution. I understand that is being dealt with by the Circuit Court. The Ombudsman gave an opinion on this matter also. The position should be clarified further and we will try to get greater clarification for the Senators on it.
Senators Noone, Paul Coghlan and Colm Burke referred to the Supreme Court and the fact the number of appeals has increased by more than 100% recently. The Minister for Justice and Equality will introduce a courts Bill, which is being worked on in the Department of Justice and Equality and which will be published as a Seanad Bill. We will have the opportunity to debate it. I hope the Bill will be brought to the House before Easter when we can have an opportunity to discuss the matters raised by the Senators. I note Senator Noone's point in regard to Lyric Opera Productions and the amount of talent in musical, operatic and drama societies, all of which should be complimented on the excellent work they do. In regard to the Seanad Public Consultation Committee, we will try to circulate those papers to all Senators. I hope we will have a good attendance on Thursday as it is open to all Senators.
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