Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

I listened to Deputy Paul McGrath last night, when a more amenable Chair allowed him to talk about everything, which was certainly entertaining. Without wishing to be disruptive about last night's proceedings, it was suggested that Government Members were not taking an interest in the Bill. That was not true and I had looked forward to contributing to the debate.

I presume none of the Members present, including my constituency colleague, Deputy Crowe, has won the politician of the year award, which is being announced as I speak. I am comfortable with that and can retain my low profile.

It is customary on these occasions to pay tribute to the mover of the Private Members' Bill and although I cannot support him, I compliment Deputy Boyle on his work and interest. The Deputy and I go back for some time. If he does not mind me outing him, we were board members of the National Youth Federation. Politically, we went in different directions and I do not know who was right and who was wrong.

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