John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

Many speakers have referred to the role of the Progressive Democrats, in particular, and the awkward position in which they find themselves in regard to the legislation. Others have referred to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell, who prior to the general election climbed all the lamp posts in his constituency of Dublin South-East and further afield to put up posters stating, "One-party Government? No thanks!" In spite of this, one party Government appears to be a reality. The Progressive Democrats have been shown to be redundant. It is a joyous day for politics that this has occurred.

I can remember a few years ago when the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell, was in the wilderness.