I join other speakers in congratulating the Cathaoirleach and the Leas-Cathaoirleach on their appointment.

There are two issues I would like to highlight. The Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation will be in the Seanad today for a debate on the issue of delivering sustainable full employment. I express the hope we will also hear during the debate about proposed legislative measures to reflect the recently agreed Labour Party motion in the Dáil on employment issues, including if-and-when contracts, protection in cases of insolvency and, crucially, given the process of development of public procurement policies in the context of trade agreements such as the CETA and the TTIP, protection of employment standards in such policies. These are legislative issues which we know are on the table. I look forward to us having the opportunity to speak again to the Minister about these concrete measures and the need to move forward on them.

Today is Bloomsday. It is a day on which the arts, Ireland's heritage and culture are celebrated across the world. I am sure others will speak more knowledgeably on that issue. It is important, however, on this day that we address the concern widely expressed about what has been perceived as a roll-back on the commitment to the arts. It is unfortunate in the context of the future debate on the heritage Bill that the term "heritage" is not reflected in the title of any Department. Ireland lags behind the rest of Europe in its funding of the arts. We need to move towards an average figure of 0.6%, the average figure across Europe, as opposed to the current figure of 0.3%. I urge the Leader to inquire of the Minister for the Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht what opportunities the Seanad may have to engage on Culture 2025, the plans related to our sustainable development goals and the right to cultural participation. I look forward to having an opportunity to discuss these issues with the Minister.

I am slightly concerned about the proposed change to Standing Orders. I believe the current system which allows for a diversity of voices to be heard is important. I am sure, however, that we will have an opportunity to discuss this matter further through the appropriate channels. I would support the imposition of a one-hour limit on debate.