Mary O'Rourke (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)

I understand, and I am delighted to see all of our side in the House.

I thank the Labour Party for tabling this Private Members' motion. It is edifying that, in the first week back after Easter, most of the debate in this House has been on social welfare, with the Social Welfare Bill and this motion. For the Minister and those who shadow her it means more time in the Chamber but it is important that we debate the matter as it is a part of life in receipt of a major amount of funding.

Last night, when I spoke on the Social Welfare Bill, and this morning, when walking to Leinster House, I thought that, as the song goes, would it not be lovely to be in opposition where one can demand, demand, demand and constantly put forward ideas without the corresponding saving?

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