Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

That is a nice sentence which was given to me to say in case Members think that I have suddenly become erudite; I have not. Senator Brian Hayes also asked for a debate on sentencing policy. Yesterday there was an embryonic type of debate on custodial places for young people under a certain age. We are trying to marry those issues and decide on a debate time. About two hours outside time for legislation will be available next week. That is being finalised.

Senator O'Toole spoke about the big three. I was struck by that and by BBC 2 last night and various other programmes. I am equally struck by the fact that the Taoiseach seems to have taken it rather calmly and he is particularly friendly with the British Prime Minister. Perhaps it was an attempt to get over the frisson that arose over Iraq and to have a debate. However, I did not like it. I felt the three of them were meeting and in effect saying: "We are the big boys. We are going to guide and deal with everything that is happening here and the rest of you stand back." There was a large amount of showmanship and grandstanding about it. There is something ironic about the UK claiming to be at the heart of Europe and every time one goes there, one has to change one's currency, with all the bother that entails. That is only one example. We can trust the Taoiseach's judgment in matters such as this and the way he is reacting.

Senator O'Meara echoed the concern over dormant accounts. We are looking at that issue to see whether the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Ó Cuív, might be persuaded to explain to the House what is happening. We are also considering a debate on the Competition Authority's report. There is only one debating slot next week and we will see what arises.

The Senator also asked when the legislation on electronic voting will be introduced. What a change there has been in a week. Now there is an independent board and there will be legislation. I will find out when the Bill will be introduced.

Senator Leyden asked about the Competition Authority's report, which has just been published. If the Cathaoirleach will indulge me, by telephoning around and not using a broker, I got the cost of my car insurance policy reduced by €200.