Geraldine Feeney (Fianna Fail)

I am glad the impasse involving the IPU has been resolved. I congratulate the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Harney, and her team, especially the Minister of State, Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher. It would be wrong if we were to say that one side had been victorious in this dispute. Senators on all sides who have worked on this matter would agree that compromises were made by everyone, that the midnight oil was burned on many evenings and that many discussions took place behind closed doors. Those on all sides, especially the members of the IPU, are happy this morning.

As public representatives, developments have given us confidence that the consultation process can work. We look forward to the Dorgan report, which is due to be completed by the end of the month. In the interim, we should not interfere or take the part of one side over the other.