Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

No, it is not. It is masquerading under the guise of redundancy. The same thing could happen in the retail sector or some other sector of employment. Workers from other countries are being invited to come here and work for half-price. It is a terrible situation. I hope there is no watering down of the Taoiseach's condemnation of it.

Senator O'Toole also referred to the partnership programme. I agree with him. It does force people to talk, not just to each other but to listen and talk to other groupings. That is the glue that binds it together. We will have to wait and see. I hope this does not put an obstacle in the way of the present arrangement.

I fully agree with Senator Ryan that the Taoiseach's words must be translated into legislation. Among the many statistics he gave, he stated that six people were convicted in the area of taxation while 36 people were convicted and jailed for social welfare fraud. This pointedly shows up the difference between rich and poor. He also referred to the partnership process.

Senator Ó Murchú stated that one of the marks of a civic society is tolerance and respect for other religions. He condemned the use of the Last Supper as a gambling tool. People in advertising should use their talents more creatively.

Senator Bannon sought a debate on Sellafield. Senator Morrissey stated there would shortly be a capacity issue at Dublin Port and that the port in Drogheda is moving to Bremore. He asked if the Minister of State with responsibility for this area, Deputy Gallagher, could come to the House to discuss the matter. He also condemned what he described as Irish Ferries' race to the bottom, which would be the outcome. It is completely against everything Europe and most human beings stands for.

Senator Mansergh said Irish Ferries should be called "Central and Eastern European Ferries". He correctly pointed out that the Bill we will discuss today, which is a European directive translated into legislation, should be a suitable vehicle for the views that have been expressed here. The Senator said that if extra Revenue staff are necessary, they should be provided. I agree. Revenue would make up the cost in full when the money came back in.

Senator Mansergh offered a robust defence of Government decisions. One would be paralysed if one did not make decisions and all further action would be paralysed. The Senator also defended public servants. Mr. Trichet, president of the European Central Bank, said that Ireland has the best functioning economy in Europe.