Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I am glad to have an opportunity to support Deputy Howlin, who has introduced the Bill. As one of the longest-serving Members in the Chamber, I am somewhat surprised by the peevishness and small-mindedness of Deputies from various parties who have used their contributions to this debate to try to undermine Deputy Howlin. In my 26 years as a Deputy, I have not previously seen a former Minister come into the House, put his hands up and acknowledge that something wrong was done. It is very important that he has done so. While I appreciate that Deputy Lawless acknowledged the Deputy's mea cupla, as I listened to his contribution, I did not know where he was coming from.

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