Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I always welcome all constructive criticism. I thank Senator Regan for his remarks but I must agree with the sentiments expressed by the father of the House, its most experienced Member, with regard to the activities, hard work and endeavour I am trying to bring to the House to make it act in a positive fashion. I thank him for these remarks. We are all privileged to be Members of this House and to serve our country. I look at it in that regard every day I attend the House.

Senators O'Toole, Mullen and O'Reilly referred to the situation in Zimbabwe, statements on which will be taken following the Order of Business. I fully agree with their sentiments, particularly those of Senator O'Toole. It is an appalling situation in which the poor people of Zimbabwe find themselves. We will do anything we can on an all-party basis to help them. The Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Taoiseach, the country and the Government must do everything in their power to ease the plight of the poor people of Zimbabwe.

Senator Kelly referred to the HSE and the way it is conducting its affairs. He gave an example of the release of e-mails without consultation with public representatives. I will pass his views on to the Minister for Health and Children.

Senators O'Malley, Donohoe, Bacik, Ross and O'Reilly offered their congratulations to the Cathaoirleach. I also congratulate him and the Ceann Comhairle on their magnificent gesture in opening up the Houses of the Oireachtas to the public over the weekend. It was very much appreciated by everyone who attended and the hard work of the ushers and other staff, the Superintendent and the Captain of the Guard in making this possible was appreciated. It demonstrated to all of us how the public appreciates the great work and endeavour in which we are engaged. It may not be flavour of the month with the media but the people of Ireland are as sound as they ever were. They have always acknowledged the great democratic process in these Houses and they showed that in their thousands over the weekend.

Senators O'Malley, Donohoe and Buttimer expressed serious concerns about the amount spent on the refurbishment of the office of the former Taoiseach. I understand the approval of a Minister was not needed for this but it seems an enormous sum.