Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I support what Senator Bacik said about a debate on women in politics. Obviously, there is a need to have all sectors of society reflected in politics and making an input in the formulation of policy. However, there is a dearth of business people, male and female, in both Houses, whose absence, unfortunately, has contributed to certain policies that might have been better thought out if that shortcoming had been addressed. We should actively look at this.

Last week we spoke about the Irish Thalidomide Association and the great injustice suffered by those affected as a consequence of the failure of the State, as well as the German corporation involved in the manufacture of the drug. I compliment Senator Mary White and Deputy Ó Fearghaíl on taking the initiative to bring representatives of the association to the Oireachtas and tabling a motion for discussion by the Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party tonight. The motion will be endorsed fully by Fianna Fáil which, if it stands for anything, stands for supporting those who find themselves in this unfortunate position. In the interim the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Harney, will meet the association. She is a tremendously caring person with a good social awareness and conscience. I know she will respond positively and adequately to the concerns of the people concerned which were not addressed properly by the State.

I support Senator O'Toole who sought a debate on the reduction of prices. There is a need for wages to be reduced further in both the public and private sectors, as we are still uncompetitive, although there has been a correction. A corollary of this, however, is that prices must be pressurised and brought down. I was amused to hear some speakers from other parties talk about the pensions issue.