Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

I refer to a statement made by the Leader, Senator Donie Cassidy, last Thursday, when he referred to the new Senators in the House. He complained about certain interruptions from these benches. We have been very patient with the Leader in his replies each week to the Order of Business and the questions raised. Indeed, we have been more patient than Senators on the Fianna Fáil benches, who appear to scarper when he begins his reply.

On the issue of talking down to new Senators and referring to them as if it is their first day in school, the new Senators in this House come with a wealth of experience and qualifications and much political acumen.