Brendan Ryan (Labour)

This is the first time I have heard anything so succinct from Senator Norris. Normally his comments would run to at least three sentences.

On successive occasions I have asked for a debate on inequality and poverty in this State. It is particularly appropriate to have this debate now that we have a new dynamic and committed Minister for Social and Family Affairs. One hopes the machismo the Minister showed in his trains, boats, bridges and cars regime will be displayed towards the greater problem of poverty and inequality in society.