Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes, Leader of the Opposition, brought up the very important topic of stem cell research. Equally important was the climate in which he wished such a debate to be couched. I fully agree with him. The lead-up to a general election is fertile ground for intolerance. I remember the mid to late 1980s when such an intolerance was expressed. There was a fear that one would have to toe the line and I hope that a postcard campaign will not develop which demands that one say A or B.