I raise the issue of the new savings scheme which the Tánaiste said this week will come before Government in the coming months. This is a hugely positive move. Anything that can be done to build awareness of such a scheme among people from all financial backgrounds should be welcomed. As members will be aware, there are a number of countries which have schemes that may be worth examining. In the UK, for example, the individual savings accounts, ISAs, allow savers to put a maximum of €20,000 away each year with returns not liable for tax on interest or on investment gains, and no requirement to disclose them in a tax return. A government top-up is available for special so-called lifetime ISAs, through which people can save to buy their first home or for retirement. For the main ISA schemes, the incentive is the improvement the tax liability. Canada has a scheme under which $7,000 can be invested each year in products linked to the stock market, with tax-free returns, and also a separate retirement savings plan. Sweden offers an investment savings account with generous tax-free limits and low tax on the remainder.

If we are going to have a scheme that encourages investment in stocks, it is vital we do a significant educational campaign because only a small percentage of people in Ireland invest in this way. There are obviously a wide range of options as to how the scheme will be designed. It would be helpful if the Tánaiste could find time to come to the House for a debate on the topic before the scheme is announced. I would be grateful if the Leader would request the Tánaiste to appear before the House.