David Norris (Independent)

I thank my colleagues and, in particular, the Leader for their gracious words. It is true that commemorating 100 years of James Joyce has released a massive energy which is being positively harnessed for the benefit of the people of this country. I welcome that. I know some people are critical of what they believe is the tatty side of things. Plastic Buddhas and luminous crucifixes do not detract from Buddhism or Christianity or from the message of James Joyce.

It was splendid to hear two distinguished politicians, the Leader and Senator Mansergh, quote from Ulysses. It is sad that this is one of the few places in Ireland where that type of quotation can be made with impunity. I look forward to a day when Joyce's work is made more generally available. The quotations chosen were wonderful and apposite. I would like to put on the record of this House once again what I believe are Joyce's wisest words. Bloom, challenged on his Jewishness and, feeling like an alien, pointed out that Jesus Christ was a Jew: "Force, hatred, history, all that. That's not life for men and women, insult and hatred. And everybody knows that it's the very opposite of that that is really life." When contentiously asked what was the opposite, he replied: "Love. I mean the opposite of hatred. I must go now." He does not stand his ground but it is a lovely moment to recall.

I am grateful for this tribute to Bloomsday and to all the wonderful young people involved in it, led by Joyce's grandniece Helen Monaghan. I have done virtually nothing this year. I have sat in the background and watched the new generation take over.

I wish also to support my Labour Party colleague's remarks about AIDS. It is important we take another look at this issue. The Senator is right to suggest the matter be debated in this House because it was the Seanad that launched the first major debate on AIDS. The Seanad has played a role in providing a sensitive, balanced and serious discussion on the matter.