Independents fail in bid for debate on protest

SEANAD REPORT:INDEPENDENTS FAILED in a bid to obtain an emergency debate on a motion calling for the cancellation of today's protest action by public service unions. Government members were joined by three of the six Labour Senators and by Joe O'Toole (Ind) in voting against the taking of the motion in the names of Ronan Mullen and Feargal Quinn.

Shane Ross (Ind) said for the Government to “funk” discussion of the motion would be to continue the public perception that the Seanad was not a relevant body.

“We have got an opportunity to give a certain amount of leadership and to express the view that what is going to happen tomorrow is going to send out a very serious message.”

Noting that our credit rating had been downgraded again, Mr Ross warned that if there was a continued indulgence in such irresponsible behaviour by the unions, the IMF would come in. Mr Mullen said it was time to show unity and to enable legislators to debate the merits of various proposals. He believed if the opportunity was provided, parliamentary consensus could be achieved.

Mr Quinn said a debate on the motion would provide an opportunity for encouragement of the avoidance of confrontation.

Paul Bradford (FG) said they would be remiss in their duty if they did not speak out about these days of action and national strikes.

Michael McCarthy (Lab) said he would support the efforts of people to protest at Government decisions across the country.

“We didn’t stand up to the corporate capitalist monsters who brought us to the brink of economic collapse . . . and yet we will stand up to the guard, to the teacher, to the nurse and the worker who is now paying pension, health and income levies to fund our way out of this recession.”

Jerry Buttimer (FG) welcomed the announcement by Minister for Rural Affairs Eamon Ó Cuív that the Rapid programme for disadvantaged areas would not be eliminated. Mr Ó Cuív said: “We will continue to tackle social disadvantage in the only way that works in the long-term: positive action and strong community involvement.”