David Norris (Independent)

I am calling for a debate to be held on the matter. I bow to the Cathaoirleach's ruling. I should have put the question mark at the start of the sentence. As a grammarian, I am used to putting it at the end of a sentence.

Can we have a debate that will also include information gleaned by all of us so painfully from the "Prime Time Investigates" report on carers? We saw clearly the tragic consequences not just for adults but for children too, some of whom are in a terrible situation because funding has been withdrawn from the Jack and Jill Foundation which was supporting them. I am pleased that among the Taoiseach's nominees is one of the leaders of the foundation, Senator Mary Ann O'Brien, and I am sure the name will be correctly pronounced in this Seanad, although it was mistaken in the last.

It is particularly important that we have this debate and I was pleased to hear a distinguished commentator from The Irish Times remark on my consistent record in this House on the protection of children, by which I stand. I want it to be known publicly that I will not be deterred and will continue to protect the rights of the vulnerable, particularly children. I invite anyone who questions this to look at the record of Seanad Éireann, on which I stand proudly.

I welcome the legislation being presented to us, again in a speedy and efficient manner, but what is the ultimate fate of Senator Feargal Quinn's Construction Contracts Bill which was one of the most important to be put before this House? I understand it is in suspended animation in the other House and hope it will soon be passed into law.

I know in my heart, as Mr. de Valera might say, that the Independent Senators feel the same as I do and that we will play a constructive role. We are engaged in our own debate on the division of responsibilities within the group. As the Cathaoirleach is aware, under the regime of former Senator Joe O'Toole, we did not have a leader, but we are opening up these issues. In this House we should make sure we are constructive, not confrontational. If there is to be sniping, partisanship and mud-slinging which sometimes form part of political life, let it take place in the other House; let us make sure the atmosphere in this House is calm.

I will support strongly the rights of the Sinn Féin group to be heard as a small group. It started with one Member; it now has three and those Members should not be downgraded in their privilege to speak.