Frank Feighan (Fine Gael)

I never made it as far as Senator Leyden's area to get away with it. Where does the discipline process end? If we are not disciplined and do not fear stepping over the mark, we can run wild. Many years ago, if a child left his street or town, somebody always recognised him and informed his parents. One always knew one's parents had a good cane. Mine not only smacked me but smacked my friend also. I would not say smacking children is desirable but the criticism that there is a lack of progress in banning the smacking of children is a little over the top.

Issues arise regarding child poverty, particularly among children of lone parents. There are many incentives in place and community welfare officers have much discretion in this regard. It is worrying that child poverty in lone parent families seems to be unbalanced. If I can make criticisms in certain respects, I cannot criticise the Minister of State's application to his job. I wish him every success. When one is in Opposition, it is nice to be able to acknowledge what has been done by the Government in this area. I wish the Minister of State continued success.