Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

The Leader of the Opposition, Senator Brian Hayes echoed Senator Mansergh's remarks on peaceful protests at the weekend. This important time for Europe should be a joyful time of celebration and countries which never expected to see freedom again after the Second World War are now basking in sunlight. It is difficult for the Garda Síochána to strike a balance in the area of security. If there is not sufficient security on the ground and things get out of control, it is a cause of great concern but, equally, over the top security is castigated. The Senator also referred to the death of Fr. Niall O'Brien. The Cathaoirleach ruled on this, but it is worth noting the work Fr. O'Brien did during his lifetime.

On the question of Seanad reform, the Committee on Procedure and Privileges set out the terms of reference and gave us a mandate to consider the issue. We are meeting the Cathaoirleach and the members of the Committee on Procedure and Privileges at 12 o'clock and will present our report to them. A copy of the report will be in everybody's pigeonhole by 2 p.m. and a press conference will be held at 2.15 p.m. We will meet the Taoiseach and present him with a copy of the report at 3.50 p.m.