Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)

I thank all the Senators who contributed to what I consider to have been a really good debate. I have had the benefit of sitting through the debates in both Houses. If any issue arises in the term of the next Oireachtas on the need for and future of the Seanad and I am in a position to participate, I will certainly cite my experience of the economic debates in this House.

Let me reply to Senator O'Toole. The Minister was present to commence this debate and will be back. Along with the Tánaiste, he is one of the most senior Ministers in the Government. I really do not believe it is appropriate to suggest my party had any contempt for the House. The very opposite was the case.