Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

I have listened attentively and in order to give balance to the comments made in the House I must listen to those who are working in the legal profession. I certainly accept the word of Senator O'Donovan who outlined his experience to the House. We will discuss this Bill for as long as possible, as required by every Senator, for its passage. That is a commitment and I do not mind how many days are required for this to take place.

Senators O'Toole, Bradford, Buttimer and Walsh all hope that the current electricians' strike will be resolved. I know many of the eminent senior people in the TEEU who have made a great contribution to the workforce and the smooth running of that union in conducting its affairs on behalf of its members. They are decent, hard working and responsible people. The timing of this problem could not be worse from their point of view. However, as Senator O'Toole pointed out, the difficulty must be addressed. Yesterday, I called on all sides to return to the table because at the end of the day the dispute will have to be resolved through negotiation. We will accept the views of the Holy Father, as outlined by Senator O'Toole. It is nice to know that we are getting a direct intervention by the good Senator to assist us in our deliberations. It is very welcome indeed.