Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I very much agree with the remarks of my colleague, Senator John Paul Phelan, in particular those in regard to the sitting days of this House. We could give example. We should sit at least four days per week as well. Much extra work could usefully be given to the Seanad, in particular if the committees are to be reformed.

In these difficult and unprecedented times, no one fortunate enough to be a sitting Member of either House of the Oireachtas, in which we are honoured to serve, should be in receipt of additional moneys by way of a pension or otherwise.

On Senator John Paul Phelan's proposal to amend the Order of Business, much useful work could be done if we allocated two hours to discuss ideas and views. We all have examples. The motor industry, for example, is on its knees. Proposals could be brought forward which we could usefully discuss and recommend to the Minister and which would be revenue neutral. For that reason, I very much support his proposal and second his amendment to the Order of Business.

I very much agree with my colleague from Kerry, Senator Daly, in regard to the great work done by the Quills, the Caseys and many others from different parts of Kerry.