Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I think there was to have been a Government Bill. As regards National Toll Roads, its representatives came to speak to me yesterday, in case the Senator was wondering what they were doing prowling around the house. We met in the front office so we did not prowl anywhere; I saw them to the door when they left. They made their case to me which I refuted very busily. It remains to be seen whether they have more to say.

I assure Senator Ulick Burke that the Tánaiste will be coming to the House. He referred to statements by the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste and the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Martin. I commend the Senator's research facilities or perhaps he read today's newspapers. I hope there will be a full debate on the subject when the Tánaiste comes to the House.

Senator Norris objected to the use of the term "pocket money" and so do I. It has a childish connotation because that is what money given to a child is called. It seemed to me that referring to elderly people receiving pocket money was very insensitive. The Senator also referred to the two basketball players in Mayo who have been beaten up under the guise of anti-American feeling. The Senator supplied me with a document which I acknowledge.

I regret Senator Tuffy's remark that the Tánaiste would not have treated wealthy people in that fashion. From what I know of the Tánaiste I do not believe that is true.