Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

There is such a thing as private confession.

It was interesting that the focus this morning was on speed, and the emphasis on speed limits at particular points on the road, all arising from the recent comments of Garda sergeants and inspectors.

Senator Brian Hayes pointed out that the problem is the operation of the law rather than the law itself. He added that there seems to be a compulsory aspect to producing tickets and fines and so on. It would be useful to debate this matter.

It was heartening to hear Senator Brian Hayes supporting our EU Commissioner on the services directive. I agree that, true to form, he is quite rightly stirring the pot.

Senator O'Toole said we cannot complain about the traffic legislation but that the complaint was about its implementation. He took up the Irish National Teachers Organisation's point about class sizes. We all received invitations to schools in our areas during the week and that process continues, which is helpful.

Senator Ryan spoke about the intensity with which the gardaí enforce speed limits. He also mentioned that HGVs are able to pass people proceeding at a reasonable speed. Indeed, when they pass, one inhales the fumes from their exhaust. Senator Dardis referred to the inconsistency in enforcing speed limits. I see the problem as the consistency with which certain places are perpetually patrolled but I have received neither a penalty point nor a summons.