Dan Boyle (Green Party)

The statement by the Taoiseach last week should remind Members that he will remain in office until the date on which he has decided to step down. It would be more appropriate to have a debate closer to that date rather than sooner, not so much to pass judgment but to acknowledge his contribution over his period in office. I acknowledge that the decision has been made and all of us in public life should be allowed to take cognisance of it and delve deeper into its significance as time passes. Part of the problem over recent months is the way in which knee-jerk reactions have informed public debate in a way that public debate should not otherwise be informed.

I agree with Senator O'Toole on the need for a debate on the Beijing Olympics, the manner in which the current relay of the Olympic torch is being used for political purposes and the impact of this on the continuing occupation of Tibet by the Chinese.