Has the Taoiseach considered the implications of the report published by the Ombudsman in respect of the lost at sea scheme? As he will be aware, that scheme was introduced by the former Minister, Deputy Frank Fahey. The report states, in the words of the Ombudsman, that the case is unusual in that it embraces both the actions of a Minister and his officials. The Taoiseach will be aware of the generality of the scheme which was to introduce capacity in the Irish fishing fleet for lost tonnage at sea. The issue arose because of the inability of some people to qualify or apply for the scheme in the way it was advertised and presented.
The report contains a number of observations of the Ombudsman where it states clearly that the distinction had to be drawn between the actions of officials and the actions of the Minister. In fairness, it goes on to state that the Minister never denied that the scheme was his and that he introduced a number of changes to protect the scheme, but the outcome from the Ombudsman's perspective is that it was badly drafted, badly presented, badly advertised, exclusive to a confined category of members and was subject to a time constraint.
This is an issue that should be discussed here. At the conclusion of her opening remarks, the Ombudsman states: "I respectfully ask the Houses to consider my report and to take whatever action they deem appropriate in the circumstances." This is a matter of public importance and, to give everybody an opportunity to be able to speak about this matter freely, I recommend that we have a discussion in the House about it in the new year. If the House decides to refer it to the appropriate Dáil committee for deeper analysis, let all those involved in this report say their piece and answer questions as appropriate. We should take into account the Ombudsman's statement that the Houses should consider the report and I respectfully suggest to the Taoiseach that, at an appropriate time in the new year, the Whips might agree that there be a discussion on the loss at sea scheme report here in the Dáil and that it be referred to a committee for deeper analysis and consideration.
Also, is it intended at any time in 2010 to give consideration to legislation in the area of human reproduction? The Taoiseach is aware of two cases before the courts recently dealing with this area. I know it is complex and not an easy subject to legislate for, but it is an issue that will arise from a moral and ethical point of view in an increasing number of instances in the future. The Taoiseach might respond as to whether the Government intends to consider that in terms of appropriate legislation in the future.
