Sam Smyth's article in last Wednesday's edition of the Irish Independent should be necessary reading for everyone. It was one of his shortest columns ever. He wrote about the war in Iraq prior to the debate in the Dáil and the article was exceptionally balanced. He pointed out, first, that there were two views. He also pointed to the august opportunity the Dáil and Seanad had to make a balanced, diplomatic and, I hope, understanding contribution to the debate. He further pointed to the House of Commons which is central to the issue. He was able to show how it was possible for people with different views to listen, comprehend and, while not agreeing with, at least respect the views expressed. Many Deputies must have read the article because it was quite clear there was a different tone in the Dáil than during previous debates. The contributions made on all sides were exceptionally considered. Today we are being given an opportunity to express our views, some quite passionate, some well balanced, obviously all very sincere, with a minimum of heckling.