David Norris (Independent)

I welcome the new agreement, although my feelings are slightly ambiguous. Due to my natural greed, which we all share, I am delighted at the prospect of a 10% pay increase but I am worried that we might price ourselves out of international markets. We must be careful to stay competitive.

Last night there was an interesting debate here on foreign policy issues and the use of Shannon Airport. Many of us will have heard a report from Washington this morning on "Morning Ireland" on the funeral of the 2,499th member of the US military to fall victim to the war in Iraq. He was a young, 25 year old man from Appleton, Minnesota, the heartland of America. As I am sure everyone would like to do, I express my sympathy to their families on the wasted lives of these unfortunate young people. Speaking on behalf of the people of Iraq, who suffer most, I cannot turn my eyes away from the suffering of others. It is said that war is a continuation of foreign policy by other means, and it is, but it is often practised by old men at the expense of the innocent lives and blood of the young.

Thank God for this wonderful weather. I hope it stays for Bloomsday. Young people of both sexes are looking absolutely beautiful in this weather, and it is a joy to be alive in Dublin. I rejoice with them.