Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

The two Independent Members of the House who have spoken, Senators O'Toole and Norris, have, in many ways, enhanced the image of Seanad Éireann. They have made a case for its continuation. I do not say that in a patronising way but genuinely. If we do not approach the momentous difficulties we face in a practical, realistic and honest way, we will not be serving the requirements and rights of individual citizens. It is obviously the Opposition's duty to engage in robust debate, particularly on such an issue and it has done it exceptionally well. It would be totally wrong if we were all yes men and women in such a debate, as it is vital to embrace all the expertise available on both sides of the House. I compliment the Deputy Leader for the manner in which he has researched the subject and expressed his particular views.

Last night I was listening to the editor of the Irish Independent on the television programme "Tonight with Vincent Browne". He was so realistic and the manner in which he made the case for action surprised me; he put it in a global context. No one could say any newspaper, the Irish Independent included, was exactly pro-Government in the last couple of years. However, there was a definite sea change in the presentation made on the programme last night.

Even though there must be cut and thrust in our debates, there is still an opportunity for Members of this House and likewise in Dáil Éireann to work together to bring about the required solution. We are all waiting to see how yesterday's decisions concerning the banks will be viewed in the European Union and elsewhere. If we are talking about creating jobs and relieving the pressure on individual citizens, we will not do it in the manner in which such debates have unfolded in the past.