Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

That is a matter for collective Cabinet responsibility.

Senator Ryan also asked whether the riot police were needed last night. I do not know, but the Minister for Justice Equality and Law Reform will be in the House today and the matter can be raised with him. He is open to taking questions and giving answers. I reiterate my comment that Members are entitled to go to and from their place of employment. Senator Dardis referred to the right of people to protest, with which we would all agree. He also stated that gardaí work in a conscientious manner, which is correct. Senator Higgins said that the members of the Garda acted commendably and that what happened last night was intolerable. It is intolerable that one cannot go to and from one's place of work in peace. I accept that protesters have a right to protest, but they do not have a right to stop Members leaving the House.

Senator Dardis requested a debate on transport, while Senator Leyden called for a debate on the strategic rail review. I would very much like the latter debate to take place. I noticed that it is not mentioned in the foreword to the report that I commissioned the review.