Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Finucane sought an end to dithering and fudging on Aer Lingus and wants the Government to make a decision. We would all welcome that approach.

Senator Mooney spoke about the staff at Aer Lingus. He also spoke about the article by Mr. Henry McDonald in The Observer, which stated that, since it is an all-Ireland body, Tourism Ireland should turn its mind to the question of funding for the Linenhall Library in Belfast. I will pass that matter on to the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Deputy O'Donoghue.

Senator Norris spoke about Ms Margaret Hassan. The news of her alleged death took the emphasis away from the killing of the wounded soldier. The Senator believes the two Houses should have a minute's silence in opposition to violence. He also spoke about the Gulfstream jet. I have asked for a debate on Iraq every week and will try again this week. Having seen the exultation of the soldiers over how many they have killed and what they have done in Falluja, this is certainly not the bright dawn that was presaged for Iraq.

Senator Kitt brought us all down to earth in discussing the need to debate the western rail corridor before the report is published.

Senator Coghlan spoke of a clear-cut decision on Aer Lingus and Senator Dooley referred to the strategic importance of the airline. He again echoed the words of Senator O'Toole in saying it was not down to just three people. I am sure Aer Lingus has many talented people at managerial level.

While Senator Quinn wants us to be "clappy-happy" all the time, I am not so sure. A colleague of mine said here that someone stuck on the M50 for an hour and a quarter in the morning does not feel like talking about the best quality of life. I must read the article in The Economist. Since Melbourne was labelled as one of the best cities, it has adopted a "clappy-happy" policy. It would be hard to keep it up.

Senator Feeney felt it was important for the husband and family of Ms Margaret Hassan to get firm news of her.

Senator Bannon spoke about illegal dumping and said the hugging with the Progressive Democrats was over. It depends on whom one wants to hug.