Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Peter Power. I compliment him on representing this country with such distinction in the national and international media. I wish to speak briefly about the importance of the media in helping us to respond to humanitarian disasters. I compliment the Government on its quick and efficient financial response to the earthquake in Haiti. It has to operate within the confines of Ireland's national budget, which is quite modest when compared with the budgets of certain larger countries. I would like to respond to some of the comments made by Senator Norris. I compliment him on the passion he brings to an issue that needs passion.