Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Is mian liom fáilte Uí Cheallaigh a chur roimh an Seanadóir nua. Táim cinnte go ndéanfaidh sé sár-jab san Oireachtas. Beidh áthas orainn go léir ar ndóigh cabhrú leis in aon tslí gur féidir linn.

As regards yesterday's events, a number of significant issues became evident. First, we saw how the dreadful flooding disaster in many parts of the country and the trauma of the people who were at the receiving end of those floods competed for headlines with the general strike. I was inspired by the victims of the floods, the manner in which they had responded and their resolve, not just to be negative in their reaction but to find a method of progressing a solution to the problem. In fairness, we must salute the Taoiseach and the Government also because they have responded quickly. It was evident that people were delighted to see the Taoiseach - indeed, all public representatives - as he went from one area to the next.

On the other hand, as regards the general strike, a number of aspects were evident to me. First, people on the picket line felt particularly uncomfortable being outside their workplace. They would have preferred to be at work. They are decent and honourable people who have given service to the country during the years and it is to their eternal credit that they made sure that in the midst of the flooding crisis they responded positively. It was clear that had been done, wherever their assistance was required.

There is only one way we can move forward in the current economic crisis and that is united. I do not accept any single partner should be kept outside the loop - the trade unions, employers and everybody who has an interest in the future of the country. I am delighted, therefore, that the unions are going back in to talk to the Government. I felt last night listening to the union leaders that it was their intention to make every effort to do a deal. If they do, they will be doing it not only for their members but for the future of the country.