David Norris (Independent)

I thank Senator Quinn for allowing me time to speak, particularly in light of what he had to say which was very dignified and moving because he was clearly personally touched by the tragic events in Northern Ireland. I also pay tribute to Senator Maurice Hayes because what he said was remarkably generous when one thinks of the appalling savagery visited on his community and on the other one by the tribal leaders and their followers in the North.

Today was interesting because of the handshake. Handshakes are very important gestures. I heard a snatch of Dr. Paisley's comments in which he said he would shake hands vigorously, openly and so on. It took a long time. These handshakes can sometimes be dangerous. I remember when President Mary Robinson shook hands with Gerry Adams. She was perfectly right to do so, but she was excoriated. We should remember that. We should also remember George Mitchell and the very crucial role he played.

We must also remember the awful things done, the tragic litany of victims and the fact people like Dr. Paisley stirred up emotions. He was a loud, shouting politician and he caused great embarrassment to people like myself who are not Roman Catholic. People associated anyone who was not Roman Catholic with this man. I disown him and what he stands for. He has a great responsibility and I hope he has now turned to being constructive. It is about time.

On the other side, I hope the people in Crossmaglen clean up their act. It was appalling that the fire brigade and others attempting to rescue people from a crashed helicopter were set upon. The same thing happened in the past couple of days in Belfast where an ambulance attempting to help victims of a crash was set upon. These issues must be addressed. Unfortunately, people have been driven into ghettos. This polarisation is to be regretted.

There is a litany of people whom we should remember, including Mr. Haughey. At the weekend I listened to Mr. Reynolds speak for the first time about going to the Berkeley Court Hotel and parking his car at a particular point in order that he could use the lift unnoticed and meet the UDA. I found it very interesting that people met these people whose careers I deplore. I hope we are at an end of savagery. I also hope that in the sentimental effusions flowing from this, we do not lose sight of the fact that this is a pluralist society and this republic is committed to respect for the rights of individual freedoms.