Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I asked the Leader two weeks ago for a debate on the system of politics in this country. There has been much talk about reform of the Seanad. Both Houses need significant reform.. In that regard, the unseemly haste with which the Finance Bill is being passed is a fine example of putting partisan political party interests ahead of the national interest. If ever a Bill needed close and careful scrutiny, it has to be the most important Bill we enact in these Houses in any year. People such as chartered accountants and others have expressed their alarm.

It does not matter to the country whether the election is on 25 February or 11 March but I am told the election is all about who gets the opportunity to present the bowl of shamrock in the White House. It is a disgrace and discredits the people involved.