They gave a very chilling recollection of the implications of the privatisation of water in Detroit and what was happening there.

At this time of year, many people's thoughts are turning to Christmas and some are hoping for a merry Christmas, while others are not. One group who will probably have a very merry Christmas are those who own companies that run direct provision centres. Anybody who read the article today in The Irish Times should be astounded by the figures that have been quoted about the companies and the absolutely indecent profits they are making on the back of the suffering of the people living in these systems. One company has made €10.8 million in accumulated profits, while another has made €2.5 million.

The published accounts record accumulated profits of approximately €25 million, but this is likely to be significantly under estimated given that some of the biggest firms have taken elaborate steps to shield their accounts from public scrutiny according to Carl O'Brien and Colm Keena, whom I commend for the work they are doing. These are colossal sums of money. It is a disgrace they are making such huge profits on the backs of people in direct provision centres. We welcome the rumblings that have been coming from Ministers, particularly the Minister of State, Deputy Aodhán Ó Riordáin, on direct provision centres. I have asked a number of times for information on Fine Gael's stance on the issue. It seems there is a difference of opinion between the Government parties on the issue. The Minister of State seems to be set on considering reform of the system, although this is going quite slowly. Will the Leader ask the Minister for Justice and Equality to clarify both Fine Gael and Government policy on direct provision centres? Does the Government intend to scrap them? How can it continue to justify profiteering on the back of people's misery?

Can we also have an update on the progress of the working group that has been put together by the Minister of State? In the light of the figures we have been given and the fact that there have been moves to deal with homelessness, it is important that after ten, 11, 12, 13 or 14 years in the direct provision system people within it see change. They deserve reform of the system which should be brought forward more quickly. Can we, please, have one of the Ministers in the House to update us on how much progress has been made to date, how many times the working group has met and when it expects to conclude its deliberations in order that the system can be scrapped or reformed once and for all?

The Senator will fight for municipal bankruptcy -----

Senator Susan Keane took three and a half minutes. I call Senator Diarmuid Wilson to contribute, without interruption, please.