Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Tuffy raised the matter of the Bill which is deemed unconstitutional. I remind the House that Ministers take legal advice before drafting a Bill. I agree with the Senator that elderly people should not be forced to sell their homes. Their circumstances may change and people may become well again and will need a roof over their heads. There is something very chilling in this proposal and I agree the House should debate the issue.

Senator Tuffy referred to cocaine being found in the vicinity of Leinster House. I did not know that and I am keen to find out more about it. The Senator may have more information. She also referred to the drugs strategy.

Senator Dardis refuted the allegations that the elderly would be deprived of their rights and he defended the Tánaiste. Senator Bradford seconded Senator Norris's request for a debate on Iraq to be held today. A Minister is not available but the Senator can avail of a mechanism. I agree with him that the truth must come out. I reiterate that we were a very amicable group when we met.

Senator Leyden referred to successive Governments but he had a lot on his head——