Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)

I was interested to hear the contributions from all sides of the House on this important issue. I congratulate Senators MacSharry and Byrne on publishing this Private Members' Bill. Having proposed seven different Private Members' Bills in 14 years in both Houses - all of which were rejected I hasten to add - it is always encouraging when Members bring forward their own legislation. It takes much work. Whether the Bill is successful, raising an issue ultimately leads to it being addressed by legislative and non-legislative means. I know Senator MacSharry has worked hard on the issue of home repossession.

One of the great advantages to a Minister attending the Seanad is that it gives him or her an opportunity to brush up on constitutional knowledge. From reading articles 18 to 24 in the Constitution, I note I have no standing in this House and the Government is responsible to the other House, not to this. Recently, I read an interesting book that stated that as the Government has no standing here, this House could do its business without the Government represented at all. This would be an excellent idea at 7 p.m. on a lovely evening like this.