Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

It is evident the House is in its final days. While it is possible there may not be a Seanad in the future, we can look back on some glorious moments, including when the House held the fort and assisted in forming public opinion on issues such as human rights and the image we have presented to the world, one which has stood us well whenever we have required assistance. It is not unusual for the country to look to its allies in Europe for assistance; we have done so often in the past. A particularly glorious period was the time we adopted a bipartisan approach to the Northern Ireland conflict. All Members will agree that it was one of the blackest periods of Irish history. The bipartisan approach taken ensured we succeeded in getting through that period and reclaiming the dignity of human life. We also showed it was possible for us to respect all traditions on the island, for which we won kudos throughout the world. People are using what happened in the peace process as an example in seeking to solve problems in other parts of the world.

We are presented with another glorious opportunity, one which requires calm nerves, reflection and leadership. The interests, concerns and suffering of the people in the current crisis are paramount. I do not believe any sane person would suggest we should not put the budget through on 7 December or that we should not present a four-year plan tomorrow or on another day. I would like us to use the remaining days of this Seanad in a constructive manner and to endeavour to be magnanimous towards the views of others. As stated by Senator Harris, for once and for all we should send the message that while we appreciate the support from outside, we will, at the end of the day, depend on own efforts in Ireand to get back to where we were. I hope we will not lose this opportunity.