Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

It is getting late and people are becoming tired. However, I must admit that some terribly mixed messages are coming across in this debate at present. Senator Walsh made a comment on an administrative issue which he understood to have been raised by the Minister. That was where the box was ticked. The matter in question had nothing to do with the overall debate. Regardless of whether the Senator made his point at midnight or 4 a.m., that fact was quite clear to me. In fairness to Senator Walsh, that must be highlighted.

On the question of procreation and the family, I heard what the Senator had to say. I do not believe these are fundamental issues. There are many amendments remaining and if the debate is going to come down to a particular level, then I am of the view that we will miss the opportunity, not to change the Bill - which is not going to happen - but to ensure every issue relating to it is teased out in a democratic and proper manner.