Joe O'Reilly (Fine Gael)

I join with Senator Brady and others in welcoming An Post's representatives. I was unaware of their presence when I spoke earlier. I particularly welcome Mr. Angus Laverty, a senior manager in communications, who is particularly helpful in his contact. I acknowledge and applaud Senator Brady's previous professional involvement with An Post, his role in the trade union movement there and the expertise he brings to this debate as a consequence. I join with colleagues in applauding individual post women and men across the country who do a tremendous job every day in a friendly, positive way. We can do nothing but applaud them. They are great people whom we acknowledge. Senator Burke suggested post men or women calling on people who have no visitors could be a Government scheme that could augment An Post's income as part of the social services. I support that call and it has great merit. I often speak in other fora on the isolation of individuals in those situations. It is a logical reform to involve An Post in the electoral register. Post people are in an ideal position to assist with it.

Senator Boyle, in an almost student debating fashion, identified the debate he thought we should have but offered no practical solutions or constructive points. There is no practical or worthwhile suggestion in what he said and the record will support this. Senator Boyle is the poacher turned gamekeeper, and is taking his role as gamekeeper to an extraordinary level beyond requirement.