David Cullinane (Sinn Fein)

I rise to disagree strongly with Senator Mac Conghail who said earlier that yesterday's proceedings, concerning the visit by the President of the European Parliament, were appropriate, respectful and appreciative. Respectful and appreciative, yes, but not appropriate given that the leader of the second largest Opposition party in the Oireachtas - and the second largest political party on the island of Ireland - was not given an opportunity to welcome the President or put a question to him. A political decision was made by the Committee on Procedure and Privileges not to allow Sinn Féin an opportunity even to welcome the President of the European Parliament to this Chamber yesterday.