Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

We all feel the same way about it.

Senator O'Toole also raised the An Post strike. Over the years I have found there are two sides to every strike, which the Senator said. A strike is never one-sided. There are two groups of people involved and for anyone to seek to portray one side as the goodies and the other as the badies is extreme and incorrect. However, we should have a debate and I will endeavour to squeeze one in somewhere.

Senator McDowell raised the McCabe murder as well. He also spoke about Mr. McLoughlin, the SIPTU member. Mr. McLoughlin made a very reasoned case but he did not get time to discuss the issue. When he went back to the acting chief executive, he was told the matter had been dealt with, which made a mockery of his membership. Although the Bill has been passed, the separation of the airports is not due to happen until next April, which the Minister told us at the time. It was only this morning that we heard the terms of the deal when Mr. McLoughlin spoke on radio. I do not know if that is the best way for us to hear how the particular airline — the offer is open to any new airline — paid 50 cent and got back €1.50. It sounds like an amazing deal. I do not know how the airport will manage that economically and show it is a good deal. Be that as it may, that is what it was. We are indebted to Mr. McLoughlin because he told us what it was about and how it would work. It is amazing economics for one to pay 50 cent and to get back €1.50.

Senator Leyden referred to An Post. We remember the long strike in 1979, so we will endeavour to hold a debate. He also asked whether the Health Bill would be completed this term. Second Stage will be taken next Friday while Committee Stage will be taken the following week with Report Stage taken a day or two later. Senator Leyden asked about the consultative forum which I expect the Minister will tell us about when she introduces the Bill.

Senator Terry spoke about Detective Garda McCabe and about domestic violence and the issues which have come out in the past ten days in that regard. Senator Mansergh called for the Minister to come in to the House to discuss the postal service. He also said competition at airports was required and that it seemed to be coming about. Senator Norris said he heard Mrs. McCabe say she had not heard from the Government but there has been ongoing discussion with the family. I think Mrs. McCabe meant she had not heard within the past two to three days. Senator Norris also asked about Mary Kelly who got a suspended sentence. Senator Dooley has strong views on that matter.