Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I have been a Member of this House for seven years and the record will show that I never once interrupted another Senator. My principle in that regard is that one should put what one has to say on the record, let another reply and let others judge whether one is right or wrong. The Senator can continue to interrupt for the next 15 minutes if he wishes but the record will show I have never done so nor do I intend doing so.

I am delighted the Minister came to this House today to set the record straight. I have great regard for Senator McHugh, as well he knows, but to suggest an issue like this should be settled one-on-one or man-to-man is only one step from saying the matter should be settled outside. This is the Upper House of Parliament. The allegation regarding the Minister's integrity is on the record of this House. It would be wrong if the Minister ignored us. I, as a Senator, would regard myself as being badly served if, once an allegation was brought to his notice and he knew it was on the record of this House, the Minister did not seek an opportunity to set the record straight. That is precisely what he did. He did so because he not only has an obligation to this House but to the Oireachtas and the Irish people. What person, where public funds are concerned, would not set the record straight and show precisely what has been done under his stewardship? He is quite right to do so.

There is nothing inflammatory in the Minister's speech. The person to whom the remarks were directed will have an opportunity to reply as has always been the case in this House. I am not quite sure what all the hullabaloo is about in this case.