David Norris (Independent)

I am glad Senator O'Toole raised that point but like all of us, Gogarty was a mixed event. I ask the Leader to suggest to the appropriate Ministers that they take a sophisticated view of the row currently going on inside the European Commission because attempts are being made to suggest that difficulties of Mr. Barroso concerning Signor Buttiglione are because he is a Roman Catholic. However, it has nothing whatever to do with that or with his private views on homosexuality, women or anything else.

He has a track record within the Italian Parliament of attempting to reverse precisely the kind of non-discriminatory measures that we are expecting him to supervise as a European Commissioner. It is a complete farce and a nonsense. I would defend his right to be a Roman Catholic and to hold whatever views he wants but in terms of policy he has a very bad and dangerous track record not only in terms of gay people but on women and immigrants. We should look at his record. His faith is a private matter. Let us not fudge that issue.

I am sure the Cathaoirleach will find this point relevant. I would like to know when we can take No. 19, motion No. 13 which deals with the Order of Business. I must compliment the Cathaoirleach on playing a valiant role in trying to control us but we are avoiding the reality. The reality being that this is the most interesting, vital, covered and relevant part of the day. We all know that. Why try to cover up that reality by giving us a little squib here, two minutes at 11.30 a.m. and another minute at some other part of the day? Let us extend the Order of Business and see where it goes.