John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I will make a few points on the difficulties in accident and emergency. I welcome the Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Seán Power. I understand that the Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Brian Lenihan, deputised earlier for the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Harney, who could not make it to the House today. That is understandable, because it is not always possible for a Minister to attend a debate.

This is an important discussion and Senators have made reasoned contributions, with the exception of Senator Minihan, whose disgraceful comments have provoked me into making some remarks on the subject. I have not heard such comments in my time in the Chamber. What is the rule of the House on Members reading their entire contribution from a script? I am fed up with certain Members, including Senator Minihan, reading their entire contribution. I understand that it is necessary for Ministers.