Leader’s closing responses
The Leader concludes by acknowledging earlier contributions on employment and Seanad reform and indicates that the matters raised will be taken forward through the House’s normal procedures.
Did the Leader not see that my tongue was in my cheek? He must have lost his sense of humour. I can count to three all right.
Comment on this
Senator Diarmuid Wilson congratulated Wellman International, which employs approximately 260 people, on providing employment for 40 years. Companies such as Wellman International form the backbone of the economy.
Senator Paschal Mooney referred to the 1979 referendum, in which the franchise in Seanad elections was to be extended to all graduates. Senator Averil Power also raised this issue. Implementation of the referendum result would be welcomed.
On the points raised by Senator Paschal Mooney, the Oireachtas Library and Research Service has brought together the various reports on Seanad reform, as well as the legislation produced by Senators Katherine Zappone, Feargal Quinn and John Crown. People want reform of the House. Having spoken to the Taoiseach, he is anxious to come to the House to address the issue of reform, on which he would welcome all suggestions. I assure Senators that this exchange of views will take place in the near future. I hope that when the Taoiseach comes before us, they will confine their remarks to the reform agenda that people are correctly anxious to have implemented.
Senator Michael Comiskey referred to the possibility of introducing a VAT refund for the construction industry. We must await the detail of the budget to find out if it contains such a measure.
Senator Diarmuid Wilson described budget days of yore as great occasions in the House. It was easy to have great budget days when the only decision needed was on how much money one should spend or squander.
Senator Feargal Quinn stated the purpose of the budget should be to return competitiveness to the economy. I also note the Senator's point on the problems students are experiencing in finding property to rent. This matter should be addressed.
I will conclude and suspend the sitting until 4.45 p.m. Having rehearsed the debate on the budget on the Order of Business, we can discuss the facts when we resume.