Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

He mentioned that the Ombudsman appeared before the Joint Committee on Finance and the Public Service. It was a startling revelation that the money brought in by the new charges for freedom of information requests does not cover the costs involved, which seems ludicrous.

The Senator also asked about the State Airports Bill. I tabled a question to the Office of the Attorney General this morning to ask whether he had given advice on that matter. I hope to have the reply before the House commences its debate on the Bill next week.

Senator Ryan echoed the sentiment that we live by the rule of law. He paid due tribute to the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Ó Cuív. As you will know, a Chathaoirligh, there was a good debate on the Dormant Accounts Bill here yesterday. I attended the end of that debate, which had been lively. The belief is dawning that these matters must be re-examined. When we adjourned to the ante-room there was an excellent debate, which included the Minister, his officials and Senators who had contributed earlier, including Senator Ó Murchú.