Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Dooley asked for a debate on ethical standards in companies with the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. He cited events in a particular company.

Senator Coghlan asked for a debate on polling standards and Senator Feighan echoed the point. That is a matter for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Some years ago the then Minister, Pádraig Flynn, sought to introduce a stay on opinion polls for up to two weeks prior to polling day. The then Opposition voted it down.

I agree with Senator Coghlan. I was at the receiving end of a rogue poll in Westmeath five days before the election. I intended to take action on it. I found out who was behind it and what it was about.