Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

The first speaker was Senator Brian Hayes, the Leader of the Opposition. He raised the matter of electronic voting. I would be the first to say that, combined with the work of the committee and its members from this House, the Government has shown a consensus-like approach to the issue. This was evidenced in the Dáil last night, in the proposal to set up the independent board and in other matters. However, I appreciate this House, in a general way, led the way and that it was Senator Brian Hayes who raised the issue as one of major importance last week. The issue was then raised in the Dáil, where it is the subject of this week's Private Members' motion. It shows that in a democracy both a Government and Opposition are necessary. The matter is now proceeding in a consensus-like way and we should all be glad, in the cause of democracy, that this is happening.

Senator Brian Hayes also spoke about the wonderful articles being written by the journalist Carl O'Brien. We are trying to organise a debate on what appears to be the lack of places for disturbed children of a particular age who come before the courts. I hope we will have this debate the week after next, if not next week.

On Senator O'Toole's point, the Seanad Office and I spoke last week to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell, and to his private secretary because I said I would make a statement on the matter today. The Minister expects to announce the terms of reference and the names of the chairman and members of the review group on auctioneering very shortly — I believe it will be within the next few days. The terms of reference are being finalised and the members of the group who were chosen are being contacted. We will await developments.