Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I compliment the Minister and also Senator Ryan on putting forward his worthwhile amendments. Their work shows the importance of Seanad Éireann and demonstrates that under my stewardship as Leader every section of every Bill is discussed. There is no guillotine in this House and there is no rushing ahead with legislation. Every line of a Bill is discussed in the House. We have often sat here until the early hours of the morning under the stewardship of the Leas-Chathaoirleach, the Cathaoirleach and former Cathaoirleach. No rushed legislation takes place in this House.

I thank the Minister, who has always been understanding when good amendments have been proposed. I thank Members for this Bill having been initiated in this House. It was initiated here and was not rushed on any Stage. However, I regret that anybody would try to make an issue on account of us trying to facilitate a Minister at 9 p.m. on a sitting evening. That is not how we have done business down through the years. I understand some Members are here for the first time, but they must learn that we respect Ministers when they come to the House. That is how I have always done business. I have always consulted with the party leaders, although this has not always done by my predecessors. I consult, communicate and negotiate. Anybody who tries to put a spin of any other shape on the situation, knows he or she is not talking about me as Leader.