Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

After we finished here on Thursday, I inquired into the matter and the position is as I have outlined.

Senator O'Toole also raised the issue of electronic voting. I am glad the changes have come about as I had reservations. I said this here in the House, as did others. We live our lives by voting and it is important that residues of fear and uncertainty are wiped away. We are on the way towards achieving that. The Senator also spoke about the pro-worker and pro-employer legislation introduced by the Minister for Finance in regard to Eircom workers.

In reply to Senator Ryan, we are not Luddites, but we were in danger of being portrayed as such, like King Canute trying to push back the tide as it rolled in. Electronic voting will now be on a far firmer footing. On the dormant accounts, as I recall that legislation provided for the establishment of an independent board to disburse those moneys. I will find out the up-to-date position.

Senator Mooney talked about lo-call informer telephone numbers nationwide and wondered if these would be abused. I have personal reservations about using an informer number. However, some of the drivers who come up behind one on the road expect one to move over for them in a 60 mph zone, even when one is driving at the speed limit. I do not see why one should if one is adhering to correct driving standards.

Senator Finucane spoke about the suicide incidence in Belfast and what appears to be a campaign by the INLA, with all those young people taking their own lives needlessly. Terrorism has developed in a dangerous manner and this is a terrible reflection of that development. Senator Brady spoke about the review of the drugs strategy. We will have a debate on that. It is necessary to take stock of the current situation to see what is happening.

Senator Norris is in the arms of a princess in The Irish Times this morning. She is not a real princess. Princesses are named; just as the Senator is David and I am Mary, she is Princess whatever.