John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I join with others in thanking you, a Leas-Chathaoirligh, for the way you filled in for the Cathaoirleach when he was not in the Chamber, for the even-handed manner in which you have conducted the proceedings and for the way you have looked after the Members of the House. I also join you in thanking the staff for the way they have always looked after Members. The duties imposed on the staff are becoming increasingly onerous. They are expected to deal with the Standards in Public Office Commission and other matters. The resources for the Seanad Office need to be looked at. An unfair burden is being placed on a small number of people who work very hard on our behalf.

I also thank Mr. Jimmy Walsh for his coverage of the proceedings. This brings to mind the work of journalists. We welcome the release of Mr. Alan Johnston in the Gaza strip. Senator Ryan made a point about Hamas dealing with corruption. It is good to deal with corruption but not in the ways used by Hamas. The kidnapping should not have happened in the first place. I do not take from the argument regarding democracy. There is a view, perhaps in the United States, that democracy is the supreme way of government, but only when the result suits the United States.