Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Bacik and Norris raised the issue of sentencing and people in prison for minor offences and suggested that instead of a prison sentence, they should be making a contribution through community work schemes or in other areas. We can ask the Minister to come to the House to debate the issue. I fully support what has been suggested.

On the working hours of the House, Senators do not come here as employees but as Members. This means they are available to the nation 24 hours a day, seven days a week. That goes for every Member of the House.