Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

The Acting Leader of the Opposition, Senator Finucane, raised the matter of the murder of Detective Garda Jerry McCabe and the Taoiseach's words in the other House yesterday. I note that he used the words "comprehensive settlement". I did not speak with the Taoiseach, but I know from his demeanour that it caused him great pain to say what he did. This is of no comfort to the widow of the murdered man and to Ben O'Sullivan. This is not something the Taoiseach entered into lightly or said off the top of his head. It was a deeply emotional moment for him and for everyone concerned. It is in the context of a "comprehensive settlement" that we echo the words of Senator Maurice Hayes. I understand the Acting Leader and many other Senators who raised the issue. It is one of significant poignancy and soul-searching for everyone involved.

Senator O'Toole had great sympathy for the points raised. I thank him for the comment on the budget. One does not know where to look in the House to find a socialist. Perhaps one could look over here.