Results 6,941-6,960 of 20,831 for speaker:David Norris

Seanad: Order of Business (9 Dec 2009)

David Norris: We should not increase the prevalence of alcoholism at Christmas time when it is particularly dangerous.

Seanad: Order of Business (9 Dec 2009)

David Norris: It is going to rain later.

Seanad: Order of Business (9 Dec 2009)

David Norris: More for Peter Robinson.

Seanad: Order of Business (9 Dec 2009)

David Norris: Shell did a very good deal, getting it all for nothing thanks to the Senator's friend, Ray Burke.

Seanad: Order of Business (9 Dec 2009)

David Norris: If the Leader's remark is for me, I cannot hear him.

Seanad: Order of Business (9 Dec 2009)

David Norris: A Chathaoirligh, will you ask the Leader to address the Order of Business and stop making partisan, political statements on behalf of Fianna Fáil? It is very irritating for those who are not members of political parties.

Seanad: Order of Business (9 Dec 2009)

David Norris: He is not a representative of the people of Kenmare. He is a representative of county councillors.

Seanad: Order of Business (10 Dec 2009)

David Norris: That is much more important. We quite understand.

Seanad: Order of Business (10 Dec 2009)

David Norris: I listened yesterday evening to the budget debate and this morning to some extensive discussions in that regard. I also heard many people complaining, which is natural, given some have been badly hit. It was harrowing to listen to people document how much they have lost and how little they will have to live on. I believe Members on all sides empathise with this. I was struck to hear...

Seanad: Order of Business (10 Dec 2009)

David Norris: I believe it is a mistake for the Government at this stage to give misinformation in this regard. I respectfully disagree with my colleague and distinguished commentator, Senator Ross. I believe we must invest in FÁS at this time. We must try to ensure a return to work for people-----

Seanad: Order of Business (10 Dec 2009)

David Norris: -----and that we do not cripple those agencies that can retrain people. Yes, we must make them more efficient but they must have investment.

Seanad: Order of Business (10 Dec 2009)

David Norris: I strongly support that. I regret the cut in overseas development aid. Many people have suggested that if it had been left expressed as a percentage it would decline naturally anyway. In 2010, we will be giving less than that which we gave three solemn commitments to provide, which is disastrous. We are in difficult times and should row together to support not the Government but the...

Seanad: Order of Business (10 Dec 2009)

David Norris: And me.

Seanad: Order of Business (10 Dec 2009)

David Norris: So am I.

Seanad: Budget 2010: Statements (10 Dec 2009)

David Norris: I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Mansergh, to the House. I am not under any illusion that the debate in this House will materially affect the financial course of this country. However, it is important that Members make a contribution as they are an essential part of the democratic mix and it may be that some points made in the House will be listened to. The Minister of State has a...

Seanad: Budget 2010: Statements (10 Dec 2009)

David Norris: Consequently, it is all fine for me. While I can volunteer, what about other people who have other entanglements? It is not simply a straight mathematical figure because one must take into account the possibility of other variables. Nevertheless, people like myself would be prepared to consider a sharper haircut. When I consider the situation pertaining to Newry, I am unapologetic in...

Seanad: Budget 2010: Statements (10 Dec 2009)

David Norris: I fundamentally disagree with some of my colleagues, including one in particular whom I will not name because he is not here. Of course FÁS should get €56 million in funding. We have to make sure it is properly spent. That should be a matter of course, particularly after the recent scandals. It is vitally important that people are retrained and up-skilled. I do not mind if some people...

Seanad: Budget 2010: Statements (10 Dec 2009)

David Norris: The Leas-Chathaoirleach can certainly ask. My final point concerns perception. Perception means a great deal when one is selling a tough situation. The Minister of State knows this; he is a sophisticated man. No one will believe the Taoiseach's salary cut. It may be 30% but nobody gives a tuppenny damn because it is too late. It may not be too little but timing is all. People are fed...

Seanad: Order of Business (15 Dec 2009)

David Norris: It is a marked reluctance.

Seanad: Order of Business (15 Dec 2009)

David Norris: Surely that is a justice matter rather than a finance one.