Joe O'Toole (Independent)

Given that a new approach of reasonableness is descending on the House I would be all for it – it is the nature of the way I do business. Will Senator Mansergh support me in getting into the meat of these issues? This is crucial to the debate. I know from cruel experience that if one is seen to be easily dismissed, one will continue to be treated as a doormat. I need to make a statement saying that we have been treated in an unacceptable manner in recent days. We must make our position known and those on the Government benches will have to understand that.

We recognise that decisions are being taken from on high and dumped on people who are being left to carry them.