Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I have had my say. I was dying to say it and I thank you, a Chathaoirligh, for giving me the opportunity to do so.

It was mentioned that entrenched trade unionism is seen as a deterrent to competitiveness, but it could not be. We are always boasting about our own economic success, much of which is based on union membership.

Senator Mooney raised the interesting matter of a proposed EU law whereby people who download Internet material will be subject to punitive fines. If such a law was passed, however, we would not have Google, rate-your-teacher or rate-your-politician. It is a point worth pursuing, nonetheless.

Senator Terry hoped that the wider issue of domestic violence, and fora dealing with such issues, will come under the aegis of the Minister of State, Deputy Fahey's, new office.

Senator Scanlon raised the subject of disabilities. I hope he will also talk to the relevant Minister about it.

Senator Norris referred to the release of a Cuban-born man, Luis Posada Carriles, who worked for the CIA. He is being released because clearly he has been running with tales to them. The Senator thought that was a disgrace and that the Department of Foreign Affairs here should deal with the matter.