Michael McCarthy (Labour)

I welcome the Minister of State. I am glad we are debating the results of the recent elections. I wish to begin by congratulating all the Members of this House who contested the European and Dáil by-elections. In that context, I wish to single out my colleague, Alan Kelly, who had a spectacular victory in the Europe South constituency and who is now a Member of the European Parliament. Irrespective of one's political beliefs, one must acknowledge that an election is an exercise in democracy and that the people have spoken. Elections are difficult for candidates and their families. In that regard, I pay tribute to those who were unsuccessful as well as those who were successful.

Senator Twomey stated that the Government is lame. In view of the fact that he is a medical doctor, I take his comments seriously. I am sure the Senator could spot a limp much quicker than the rest of us.