Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I call it a filibuster. The Senator asked for a guarantee that there would be a senior Minister present on Committee Stage of the Bill. We regard all our Ministers as excellent and whoever comes in will do an excellent job. He also wanted a guarantee that amendments would be accepted. He must wait until the debate happens for that.

I agree with those who want to thank the staff. Through the Cathaoirleach I formally thank the staff in the House and those who produce the reports for the massive work they have put in following our long session.

Both Senators O'Toole and Brian Hayes agreed with the comments made in regard to the North. Senator O'Toole made an imaginative proposal in regard to the Americas Cup. I thank Senator Dardis for informing me the winning boat is owned by a woman. It would be wonderful to get the event to come to Ireland. I have a modest knowledge of boating and sailing from Lough Ree, which is not making a pitch for it. I remember what an event it was when the tall ships came to Ireland. I will convey the Senator's suggestion to the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Deputy O'Donoghue, and perhaps something will come of it.