Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I compliment the Government Whip on his vindication of Senator Cummins. I compliment both Senators on their excellent working relationship. When will the Leader learn that this is the House of the people and that we need to operate on their behalf? The point made by Senator Cummins is valid. This House is not the preserve of any one Member; it is the House of the people.

I join others in asking the Leader for a debate on the Saville report. As somebody who has always been intrigued by the events of Bloody Sunday, I look forward to Lord Saville's vindication of the innocent individuals who died or were injured. The events of Bloody Sunday have left a stain on the country and I hope today the people of Derry will be liberated and have an opportunity to blossom once again. Perhaps the Saville report will mark the launching of a new Ireland of hope, peace and reconciliation. I sincerely hope the Leader will arrange a debate on the report at the earliest opportunity. I also hope the Widgery report will be banished forever and that the men and women of Derry who, as politicians and ordinary citizens, were involved in civil rights issues will be vindicated. I hope there will rejoicing at the fact that Ireland will at last be told today that the people who marched on Bloody Sunday were not murderers, but ordinary citizens looking for what was best for their country.