Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

As one who could not get elected with 7,555 votes and for whom there was no seat, I can speak from a position of strength.

Senator Mullen called for a debate on the issue of asylum seekers and brought to the attention of the House a report dealing with the dignity of the human being. I agree with the Senator and have no difficulty allowing time for a debate on the matter. Senator Leyden rose to make a correction to the record of the House. I am pleased he did so because I know he did not utter the comments credited to him in the media this morning. The journalist, whom is of high repute, has clarified the matter.

Senators Daly, Norris and Walsh asked about the proposed celebrations in regard to the 100th anniversary of the 1916 Rising and the proposal to move the Abbey Theatre to the GPO, now provided for in the programme for Government. I believe this is one of the most appropriate ways of celebrating the 100th anniversary of the 1916 Rising and I look forward to it. I support the call from Senators Norris, Daly and Walsh for a discussion on appropriate ways of honouring the men and women who gave us the freedom of speech which allows us to participate in the national interest.