Mary White (Fianna Fail)

Women occupy a particular role in business. Generally speaking, they do not have the macho style which is the traditional approach to running a business. They bring their own instinctive qualities to bear, qualities which are different from men's. In my business we were acutely conscious of having a feminine and maternal relationship with our employees. We did not get on with everyone all the time, but there was a basic difference between men's and women's approaches.

There are 111 Fianna Fáil Deputies and Senators but only 11 women. This saddens me. There must be leadership and women must be encouraged to participate. I support Senator Henry. The Minister should do whatever he can do to change this legislation. I ask him again to implement the 60:40 ratio for the new tourism board.