Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I would like to be associated with the tributes to the Cathaoirleach, Deirdre Lane, all the staff and to Paddy Behan who is something of a guardian angel, as has been said.

I agree with Senator Brian Hayes' comments about when the former Minister had knowledge of the overcharging fiasco.

In regard to the Colombia three, it is not up to us to ask questions post the events. It was a matter to be proven and established in court. None of us, based on our system, believes anything was proven other than the passports issue. Naturally, as citizens of this country, we must have a concern for those involved and about the judicial system in that country. However, that is a matter for the Government and Ministers to deal with.

We only heard this morning that the IDA had its most successful year ever, which we are all delighted to note, and also that next year will possibly be an even better year for it. In light of that, I call for a debate early in the new session to discuss in particular how it will address the blackspots in the country.

I was surprised at the Leader's use of the term "spats" because I do not believe I have ever had a spat with anybody in here and I am sure Members would agree that I never had a spat with the Leader.