Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I always feel a sense of futility when I say motions are to be taken without debate. However, they are usually coming back from or being sent to joint committees, of which Senators are members. I suggested to Senator O'Toole some time ago that if a report is requested on a motion, it should be sought with notice and a debate held subsequently. That is a good idea. While we trust Senators on joint committees, it would be nice to have a debate on committee reports and I will establish whether that can be done.

Senator Ryan also commented on the North in a most open fashion. We await developments with hope.