Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

I would like to commend to every Member a sentiment I discovered by chance a couple of weeks ago which is attributed to Thomas Francis Meagher, who brought home the tricolour, and which runs, "The prosperity of a nation requires the protection of a senate".

I wish to pay tribute to the outstanding contribution of outgoing Ministers, particularly those who held the portfolios of Finance and Agriculture and Food. I share the sentiments expressed by the Leader of the Opposition.

As regards transport facilities being opened or reopened, I was glad to be on the train that crossed the Clare viaduct, between Limerick and Waterford, on its reopening. Members will be glad to hear that the viaduct remains open.

I agree with Senator Ryan. I do not like to see people on social welfare payments being sent to prison, even if they have abused the system. One of the most acute matters for debate is that of growth and social inequality. There ought to be a recognition in any such debate of the amount of social progress we have made across the board in reducing absolute and consistent levels of poverty.