Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

I subscribe to that superstition and I have never attended a political meeting of 13 within my organisation or created an entity of 13 within my organisation or party. Of course I have had to attend public meetings with 13 present. Senator Mullen has made an interesting point, worthy of examination and support. Some legislation provides for a quorum or at a minimum envisages the fixing of a quorum. As Minister I must be satisfied about the independence and procedures of the Press Council. It seems reasonable that there should be some legislative reference to a quorum. I do not want to tie myself down to the precise formula proposed by Senator Mullen. I take the point made by Senators that the public interest should be safeguarded in that respect also. I will examine the issue with care.