Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

I join in the tributes of the previous speakers to the Cathaoirleach. His sense of tolerance towards all Members during the last session, particularly during the Order of Business, was greatly appreciated. Those of us who have been Members of the other House can recognise and respect the difference here in that there are not the same impediments to raising issues of importance. Yesterday proved to me the benefit of the Seanad. I observed the debate on the State Airports Bill 2004 in the Dáil but found the contributions from Senators yesterday an enriching experience in terms not only of the knowledge of the legislation that was displayed but also the wider knowledge of all the pros and cons of the matter. Members' concerns were clearly expressed and are represented in the Committee Stage amendments which will be debated today for the Minister for Transport's consideration. This demonstrates the depth of debate that takes place in this House and we should recognise the quality of that debate and the good attendance, indicative of the tremendous interest in this and other legislation.