David Norris (Independent)

I join my colleagues in paying tribute to the remarkable agreement reached yesterday in Belfast. In particular, I thought Mr. Adams played a fine game. He could have stymied the whole thing if he wanted to be petty and could have refused Dr. Paisley the room for manoeuvre he sought. This was a type of last-gasp saloon for Dr. Paisley, who was christened "Dr. No" by newspapers. If he ever wanted to achieve his ambition of becoming First Minister, this was the moment it had to be done. I am glad agreement was reached. Senator Maurice Hayes is right in saying the body language was important. The visual impact of seeing on television the two of them sitting almost side by side was very interesting. I hope that in the general feeling of well-being we do not forget the cost, the tragic loss of almost 4,000 lives and a large number of people crippled for ever. I hope those still suffering will not be forgotten when the new arrangement comes into being.

The situation is hopeful and perhaps it can be used as a model for other parts of the world, for example, the Middle East. I seek a debate on the Middle East because we do not have the same standards in dealing with Israel and Palestine. It is important we also include in debate areas like Iran and the taking "into detention", to use a neutral phrase, of 15 United Kingdom sailors. I noted the extraordinary arrogance of the spokesman who described the boat as being in "our waters". I wonder how the sea around Iraq has suddenly become British territorial waters. I have considerable hesitation about accepting the United Kingdom's version of events, particularly since the local Iraqi commander said clearly the sailors were in Iranian waters. In 2004, we had a similar provocative incident and it was determined then those involved were in fact in Iranian waters. I hope they are not attempting to provoke another military adventure by Mr. Bush.

I support Senator Terry's comments on the Taoiseach's speech. I was out protesting the war, but I heard his speech in the evening and found it a fantastic performance. It was real barnstorming and he hit all the right notes. I have no doubt there will be a bounce. I have just one hesitation and I am sure the Cathaoirleach supports me on this. When the Taoiseach said he believed in attacking problems, not personalities, I had a sudden flashback and remembered his attack on Deputy Joe Higgins in the Dáil. Then I remembered——