Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

I hope the Leader will take the opportunity to convey to all on the other side of the House that they do not hold a monopoly of concern about the image of this House and that silence does not in any sense mean acquiescence. We welcome the opportunity the House is providing for Senator Callely to make a statement. I have served in this House for a long time and, like all colleagues, I take my role seriously. I am also more than acutely aware of the public perception of this House and of anything that would in any way damage it in the current climate. There is a major political party which wants to abolish the House. It is not the first time that this proposal has been brought forward. It should make all members aware of their own position in that regard.