Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

We have tested his patience at times, and I have played my part in that. His approach to the business of the House has been very fair, and I thank him for that. We will all support him in the future.

The Seanad is a most important institution, although its role and effectiveness in scrutinising legislation are not very evident. Not many amendments or suggestions from the Opposition are accepted by the Government - at least not obviously, because no Minister wants to admit that he or she is accepting amendments from the Opposition. However, the debate in this House permeates through to the various Departments and is ultimately reflected in better legislation. It has provided a platform for raising many issues of national interest and concern, and we have seen results from some of those debates. The Seanad has effected change in the body politic.