Joe O'Toole (Independent)

The disparaging remarks about members of the public made by the Minister of State, Deputy Hoctor, at the end of her speech gave a very bad turn to a very good speech. I refer to the idea that Sligo people were coming up here for the craic. I have just spoken to the secretary of the Sligo branch of the retired teachers who was appalled at the suggestion, but nonetheless it was made.

I have discussed this issue with many different retired groups. I had a meeting approximately two weeks ago with representatives of retired primary and post-primary teachers in Parnell Square. It was a crowded meeting where representatives of primary teachers and post-primary teachers from every county were present. They asked me a question. It is interesting how they want to get themselves——