Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I have been impressed that most of the contributions in the Dáil have maintained a semblance of unity of purpose. Members of this House have been very responsible as well. Reference was made to the situation being chaotic but we must admit that we are living in really chaotic and turbulent times financially. No Seanad or Dáil in the history of the State has been confronted with the situation with which we are confronted. The Wall Street crash was confined to America. Looking at what is happening in America, its President and members of Congress have said their whole business and financial structure is at stake and it has come up with a rescue package.

I would prefer not to be here at 10 p.m. but we agreed to resume at 10.30 p.m. last night. I understand people saying they would like a reason but if there is a really good reason, I would expect we would not be told it, nor should we be.