Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I commend Senator Butler on his contribution this morning which was rock solid and free of histrionics. This should be the guiding light at present; we have to be very practical and co-operatively focused. I welcome some of the comments from the Opposition. I believe there is a desire on everyone's part to be involved as a team in solving the current economic challenges. The more we can expand on this desire and create a forum for it, the better.

I am also glad that the silly season is over, especially with regard to some sections of the media. It had descended into an absolute farce. People were discussing pin-up Taoisigh and talking about looks, clothes and deportment or the absence of deportment. We all know this is absolute and utter codology. It is important that we distance ourselves as public representatives from that type of approach. We are dealing with a crisis.