Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes noted the successful passage through Second Stage of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship and Ministers and Secretaries (Amendment) Bill 2003, which was brought forward by Senator Quinn. All Members of the House are pleased that the Bill was approved last night. I encourage all Senators, from all parties, to propose Private Members' Bills. I am preparing such a Bill at present.

If there is a quality I cannot stand in a person, it is hypocrisy. We have been treated to a double dose of hypocrisy in the House this morning. Several Senators on the other side of the House asked me if the Houses will take a mid-term break of one week. I will spare their blushes by not naming them, but I reiterate that they occupy the Opposition benches.