Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Mansergh welcomed the ten new accession countries. I agree that we should tell the professional agitators to get away because we do not want them. They are trying to turn what will be a day of great pride, enjoyment and welcome into a day of mayhem. Let us hope there will not be mayhem because it will be a day of great rejoicing for the whole of Europe.

Senator Quinn referred to the proposed identity card legislation in the UK and asked that our views be sought on the matter. The Senator also asked about an Oireachtas television channel to show Dáil and Seanad debates, about which I made inquiries before Christmas when it was last raised. There is interest in having such a channel although there are doubts about audience numbers and whether it would enthuse or excite people greatly. I do not know the answer but there would be a dedicated following for a proper Oireachtas channel and I will make further inquiries.

Senator Hanafin called for the speedy return of the Colombia Three and also referred to the issue of Sunday trading. I think Sunday shop opening is here to stay.