Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I endorse the points made by Senator Mullen. There have been calls in the House previously for debates on the perception of politics. We must have a debate on that issue. The professionalism of politics has been downgraded to the extent that we are considered to be nobodies in the world, regardless of one's political party. I have also on many occasions sought a debate on Irish society. It has changed terribly. We have seen the bashing of politicians and the clergy and now there is talk about people power and that the people, and nobody else, should run this country. The worry is how that is to be shaped in the future.

I congratulate those who have secured appointment to the Cabinet. It will lead to a new approach. Senator Coffey referred to the role of FÁS. It has gone into the Department of Education and Skills where I believe it should always have been.