Maurice Hayes (Independent)

I am always grateful to Senator Mansergh for lighting up my day with classical allusions. I cannot help thinking that the next time Europa and Turkey get together in any seminal way, the agency will be a man in a bowler hat from Brussels. I support the Senator's underlying theme — the need for a debate on hugely important European matters such as subsidiarity. Some groundbreaking work needs to be done in that respect.

I support Senator Ó Murchú's remarks about the Irish language. I would like to inform the House that the meeting of the Forum on Europe in Gaoth Dobhair on Monday night was conducted entirely through Irish. The people who attended the meeting appreciated that. Many speakers at the meeting asked about the language directive.

I join other Members in expressing my appreciation of the work of Dr. Marie Cassidy. While I do not know her, it seems to me that she is a most exemplary public servant. She should be supported in every way.