Alex White (Labour)

Exactly. What is hilarious about the Minister's position on nationalisation is that when he is pressed he says: "No, we could not have nationalisation, for all the reasons that Mr. Ahern has given in The Irish Times". However, when he is pressed and wants to argue he says: "Sure we already have it or nearly have it". Which is it? The Minister either thinks it is a good idea or he does not.

Senator Norris made an interesting point with regard to the Minister. He said the Minister is on top of this issue and he gave a good performance in the Seanad last night on it. I agree with that. I was here too. However, that does not answer the point made. No Minister can carry the burden of both making decisions and of running these institutions and also be the party that will communicate issues related to it.

Progress reported; Committee to sit again.