Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

I am replying to the rather partisan remarks of my colleagues. I thank Senator Wilson for his single transferable speech that could equally be given at his party's Ard-Fheis. In spite of what he states, this is not the land of milk and honey that he presents. A wise Minister for Social and Family Affairs — the Minister, Deputy Coughlan, is wise — will reflect on this debate and come to the House to roll back on the position on widows and widowers. Fianna Fáil is a bit like the Stazi Party in the former East Germany which spoke with one voice.