Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I enjoyed listening to Senator Cyprian Brady's clear and logical interview on "Morning Ireland" this morning. What he said was not decried in the response from the Labour Party spokesperson. Senator Brady correctly stated that the Army is an aid to the civil power. Senator Cummins spoke of gangland crime, drugs and so on. One often wonders following an event what led the particular man or woman to become involved in that type of gangland lifestyle. I believe they get involved early in their lives.

Senator Glynn asked that we invite the Minister for Health and Children to this House for a debate on hepatitis C. He also referred to the words of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell to the Judiciary, an issue which we also need to discuss. Senator Daly spoke of the Moyross initiative. I hope Mr. Fitzgerald's appointment will have good effect. Senator Ulick Burke spoke of the availability of only three gardaí in the drugs unit because all of the others were in court waiting to give evidence. He also stated there is a lack of confidence in the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell. I have encountered the opposite, namely, there is a belief in his prowess and in what he can do. There is no doubt we are living in dreadful times. However, the Minister inspires confidence in many people.

I have read the report to which Senator Terry referred. I spoke on it on "Newstalk". It deals with issues such as why women are not getting involved in politics and why 83% of our teachers are females, 48% of whom are principals. Two fine women parliamentarians will throw in the towel come May or June 2007, namely, former Minister for Education and Science, Deputy de Valera and Deputy Mildred Fox. Deputy Fox who is a young woman from a rural area has stated she can manage her commitments to the Dáil but that she has no time with her children when she goes home because she has to attend protest meetings about masts, farming, roads and so on. Deputy de Valera wants to pursue her studies further. I cannot understand why the feminist groups did not comment on the decision of these two women to opt out of public life, which will be all the worse for their leaving. I believe Deputy de Valera brought great status to public life. Also, Deputy Fox is wonderful evidence of a young woman, living and rearing her family in rural Ireland. Issues such as nurturing arise. While some men make great fathers it is, ultimately, the woman who bears and rears the children. Even the best of child care does not ease a woman's pang at having to be away from her child at certain times.

Senator Mansergh said he believed the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform had the confidence of the people and political system. I will not comment on what else he said as it could lead to another row, although I recall quite clearly that to which he referred. Senator Coghlan asked about proposed legislation on new judges and said we need many more initiatives like the Moyross initiative. He also asked me yesterday about audits. There is no legislation promised. However, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Roche, is to establish a local authority watchdog committee on finances and is encouraging all county councils to do likewise.