Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I could talk forever on this issue. I am not accusing the Leas-Chathaoirleach of anything — he is a most humane person.

Such advertisements show little regard for women. It is serious that such an attitude towards women prevails in society. I can talk freely now but 20 years ago I would not have made the comments I have in this or the other Chamber, or in a chamber of the county council. I would not have dreamed of it but I say it now because of what I see around me and with years of wisdom and knowledge behind me. I wish women would be stroppy and confident, that they would talk to people and not be afraid.

I remember going to my first county council meeting in 1974 or thereabouts and the chairman of our group who was a lovely man — I was the only woman among the 24 — told me that my best option was not to speak for about six months, and then I would be all right. Imagine not speaking for six months.