Health policy and fines recovery
The Leader responds to health-service criticisms, consultant recruitment concerns and the forthcoming fines-recovery legislation, amid continuing political interruptions.
It is like the Government's health policy - another work of fiction.
Comment on this
Senator Colm Burke spoke about consultants' pay and Sinn Féin's policy on the issue. He questioned how we could recruit consultants. He also referred to the attachment of earnings and the Fines (Payment and Recovery) Bill.
Under that legislation which will come into force on 11 January 2016, moneys may be deducted from salaries and social welfare payments instead of sending people to prison for the non-payment of fines.
Senator Terry Leyden welcomed the deal with nurses, while warning it might cause problems in the future in other areas. He also outlined the need for reform of emergency departments.
Senator Gerard P. Craughwell referred to the RTE programme broadcast last week in which corrupt practices engaged in by public representatives was investigated. I agree with him that the vast majority of councillors are decent, hard-working people who wish to help their communities. The actions of certain individuals, as revealed on the programme, are regrettable.
Senator Sean D. Barrett referred to the revelation that a large number of motoring warrants were not executed and called for a debate on the issue of road safety. The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport has outlined a number of road safety measures which include new provisions on drug driving which he proposes to bring before the Houses in January. We will debate all of the issues raised at that time.
Senator Cáit Keane again referred to the case of Ibrahim Halawa. I understand Mr. Seán Kelly, MEP, with the support of all other Irish MEPs, has tabled a motion in the European Parliament calling for Mr. Halawa's release from prison in Egypt.
Senator Jim Walsh commented on views expressed by the Master of the High Court, a man who has opinions on many issues. On the law on bankruptcy, the Government has already reduced the discharge period from seven years to three. The Bankruptcy (Amendment) Bill which is making its way through the Dáil will reduce it further to one year.
The Senator referred yet again to his time as a local authority member. I do not know how things operate at all in New Ross without him. He might have to consider going back.
