Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

They are of much better quality and style than those in the other House.

I thank the Minister for being present all day in the Chamber. If I may, a Leas-Chathaoirligh, when I finish I will say something about the Order of Business.

I thank the Minister for attending the House all day and for listening closely to the debate, as is obvious from the exchanges that have taken place. Such exchanges, involving more to and fro, should be a feature of the House, rather than the sedate speeches that are read out and in which nobody quite believes. It is admirable that we are having this debate.

Although I have reservations, I will of course be voting with the Government side on the Minister's proposals. Everyone has to put on their badge of honour when they stand up and say "We do believe, Minister, that you are not a racist". So, lest by not saying it, I would be deemed to believe it, I wish to say that I do not believe the Minister is a racist.