David Norris (Independent)

I ask for a debate on the current difficulties that Dublin Bus is experiencing as a paradigm of the situation that exists now which can be very easily exploited by maverick elements. So many people are upset about the economy that it is easy to separate them from their legitimate union representatives. I deplore the fact that after six weeks' hard negotiations this has been frustrated in this way with intimidation, which is very regrettable.

I always hesitate to take a sectarian angle on anything and I regret having to use the word "Protestant". However, it is notable that the Church of Ireland Archbishop Dr. John Neill spoke very strongly about the way in which cuts, which he described as very discriminatory, will affect what he described as Protestant schools and described an unbelievable lack of understanding within the Department. Caretakers, secretaries and teachers will now all be lost in a dispersed and vulnerable community. I ask for a debate to allow us to look at this matter calmly.

I support Senator O'Toole's call for a debate on the Corrib gas field. This was disgracefully sold out by a previous Minister who is totally discredited. I have supported some of the campaigns and protests of Shell to Sea as have many distinguished clergy. I know of no connection that has been demonstrated between them and the Real IRA or any of these thugs. However, I would welcome an opportunity to scotch this. In response to my dear friend Senator Harris, I do not mind if he thought Lenin would call me an idiot. Lots of other people have done so too.