Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

The virtual unanimity in the Chamber this morning regarding Northern Ireland is an indication of the great progress which has been made to bring a lasting and just peace to this island. Most of us were hoping a final solution to this particular phase would have been reached yesterday. What we are now dealing with is a cosmetic issue. We should all temper our views because, as Senator Brian Hayes said, the next 48 hours could be particularly important.

Everybody in public life admires people who do good for those vulnerable in society. We are glad to extol the virtues of such people. Mother Teresa is one such person. Lest our silence might suggest in some way that we accept there was fraudulent activity involved in our admiration for her, it is important to put on the record that most people are glad to see what she has done being recognised.