Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I thank Senator Brian Hayes for his comments on Proinsias De Rossa's visit here yesterday. It was a most worthwhile debate and we look forward to hearing the Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Roche, and Deputy John Bruton on the subject.

Senator Brian Hayes also mentioned the proliferation of knives. The problem is that there has been a breakdown in consideration for others, due to a lack of respect for one's self and for others. It is hugely worrying. The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform is very keen to come to the House but he is attending committees dealing with legislation. Senator Dardis has asked him to come and he will when he gets the time.

The issue of back payments to widows was taken up by Senator O'Toole who told us the Joint Committee on Finance and the Public Service would be issuing a statement on the matter within a week. We are glad to hear this. He also asked for a debate on the auctioneering profession.

Senator Ryan mentioned media coverage of what goes on in the House and I agree. What the media cover is up to them but we are endeavouring to put forward the Seanad as an innovative Chamber, capable of change. Mr. De Rossa did himself good by conducting the debate in such an open fashion and the next two should be the same.

Senator Ryan then spoke about the rights of children in the draft European constitution. In that context, I understand that an amendment was tabled by the Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach, Deputy Roche, to a particular sub-article in the Convention on the Future of Europe. However, that is a far cry from the Government adopting a position on the issue. The Minister of State will come before the House on 4 March and Members can ask him about the matter at that stage.

Senator Ryan also referred to the Garda and to an individual garda who the commissioner said was performing a particular duty. He also asked if there was confusion in the Government, which there is not.