David Norris (Independent)

It seems to me there is no difference at all. I have a great deal of sympathy for Senator Bacik because she must be experiencing a very unpleasant sensation of déjÀ vu. She introduced a climate change Bill in the last session and was advised by Friends of the Earth, which issued a strong statement condemning the Government. It does not swallow the situation. It was obvious during the final days of the last Administration the junior partner was rolled over on by the Government. It might happen to the Labour Party as well. What are the differences?

With regard to the Keane report which was mentioned, I have raised the issue in public. The inquiry comprised 22 members, including 17 civil servants, three members of the Central Bank, one representative from AIB, one from the EBS and none from New Beginning or representatives of the people who are actually feeling the pinch. Once again, the good old establishment ignored people who are actually experiencing difficulties. The principal recommendation was that MABS be upgraded. We already know it is under financed, under resourced and cannot do the work. It was a cosmetic procedure. It is rubbish. It is like Tweedledum and Tweedledee, and I and the decent people of Ireland would like to know the difference.

In regard to the bondholders, the Tánaiste and the Minister for Finance, Deputy Noonan, were supposed to do all kinds of wonderful things but have done absolutely nothing. Our money is being poured down the drain-----