Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes, the Leader of the Opposition, raised the issue of Northern Ireland, in particular the lack of human rights there and that Sinn Féin be called to account as to whether it is on or off the peace train. He also called for a renewal of the Forum for Peace and Reconciliation. His points were well made. I hope it is possible to renew the forum.

Senator O'Toole asked if we would extend speaking time from 12 to 15 minutes for the Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill. I will extend the speaking time for the main speakers from 12 to 15 minutes and Members may share time.

I expect the Taoiseach's views on social welfare will be elaborated on shortly. We all accept this must be done sensitively, but neither do we intend to leave ourselves wide open with every other country taking steps in this regard.

Senator O'Toole also referred to Irish food being cheaper in France. I loved Senator Mansergh's intervention which we will come to. If all those years ago in Wolfe Tone's time they were talking about it being better and cheaper, plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose. Things remain the same.

Senator Tuffy expressed her sympathy on behalf of her party and the House on the recent Dublin Bus tragedy. She called for a debate on traffic co-ordination involving the Minister, the Department, Dublin City Council and other stakeholders in the debate.

Senator Leyden is in high dudgeon over the price of certain newspapers and asked why some have increased while others have not. Yes, well——