Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I support the points made by Senator Brian Hayes on No. 7, which has been raised on several occasions by Senator Henry, and No. 8. What legislation will come before the House before Christmas? Although we received a list a month or six weeks ago, I am not sure of the current position. There are currently six Seanad Bills before the Dáil, some of which were rushed through this House following considerable pressure, which is a little like the approach being taken to legislation this week. Senators are entitled to know the exact position with regard to legislation before the Dáil which was passed by this House, legislation due to be taken in this House before Christmas and the legislation on the Order Paper.

Last week, we noted the decision of the courts to find George Redmond guilty of the crime of corruption. A crucial issue has been raised by this case, about which, I am sure, Senators will have been asked questions. I understand it is a crime to offer a bribe inasmuch as this bribery is also corruption. I have no interest in talking about the Director of Public Prosecutions or anybody else, but I want to know precisely what is the law and what is Government policy in this regard. It does not do the law any good if people give evidence of offering what appear to be bribes – I choose this word wisely – on the basis of which other people are found guilty of accepting bribes and of being corrupt without any follow-up against the people who offered the money in the first instance.