John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I am conscious of the fact that we are subject to a sessional order and that we must conclude the Order of Business within a specified period. In that context, all of us need to be aware of the fact that some people may wish to speak and if we keep speaking on the Order of Business, they will not have an opportunity to do so.

I congratulate the Taoiseach and the British Prime Minister on the work done yesterday in Northern Ireland. It seems strange that the British Prime Minister, who is confronted by the possibility of a war in Iraq, remained at the talks while the leader of the Unionist Party felt the need to return to Westminster for a committee meeting. Leaving that issue aside, I believe progress was made. Perhaps it is somewhat disappointing that matters were not brought to a conclusion. I am confident, however, that with goodwill on all sides – and if people remember the Good Friday Agreement is the template on which everything is based – it will be brought to finality in the coming weeks. I wish everyone involved well in that regard. It might not be appropriate to debate the matter now, but perhaps we can do so later when a clearer picture emerges.

I accept the Cathaoirleach's ruling, which I do not dispute. The debate last night was quite heated and it needs to be seen in that context. Unparliamentary words were used on all sides. One term was used quite late last night, which I thought was very unparliamentary. The standard that might apply to those of us who have been here for a long period might be different to that which applies to those who have not been here long. I am confident that the import of the words was not intended to be offensive. Notwithstanding the fact that I can understand why offence might be taken, I hope the matter might be seen in that light. The context of the debate and the fact that it was quite heated at times should be taken into account.