Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

There appears to be a chance of success and I regret that these two matters were linked by Senator Ryan.

Senator Ó Murchú referred to the Donegal man, William Bartley, who was battered and bruised. He referred to a malignancy in society, which I agree is the case. That incident is every bit as ugly as what is happening in Iraq. We rightly condemned the killing of the dying soldier but what happened Mr. Bartley was equally ugly. Senator Ó Murchú called for a broader debate on the issues in society which are leading to that kind of action.

Senator Finucane seconded Senator Ryan's amendment regarding ODA. Senator Mooney responded to the slur on the Taoiseach at a sensitive time. He also wants the Minister for Foreign Affairs to request the Ukrainian ambassador who is based in London to come here to explain what is happening. The people who oversee elections said there were faults in the system. Two people have claimed to be elected but we do not know what the position is.

Senator Norris referred to the European Commission. We are all amazed that the French Commissioner appears to have come unscathed to the Commission. I accept that in the French system a presidential pardon wipes out all wrongdoing, which is handy.

I have tried to get answers to Senator Norris's questions. He should not think I am being tardy.