Fiach MacConghail (Independent)

I welcome Dr. Robinson. As we are on the theme of showing one's age, my parents decided that instead of attending civic classes in school in 1977, I would be sent out to support her in her campaign for the Dublin Rathmines West constituency. I was a lot younger than I should have been, about 11 or 12 years of age. I learned a lot about political culture and Dr. Robinson's wonderful vision and commitment as a member of civil society. I admire her. When I was director of the Project Arts Centre, she visited as President and she also attended many productions by little known companies and artists who are now some of the leading champions of the arts. She made that connection with them at a young, emerging age and I appreciate that.

I will not dwell on the Seanad reform question but Dr. Robinson will acknowledge that we have an appetite within to change. Many of the changes initiated by the House were proposed by the group of Independent Senators and I would like her to comment on that.

I acknowledge the notion of the age of participation and using social media such as Facebook to make connections. Young people, in particular, feel alienated from what they see as a traditional, centralised part of the democratic system which is at a remove. This is a reminder that in my role as a Taoiseach's nominee I need to make sure connections continue in this age of participation.

Will Dr. Robinson outline her sense of what is happening on the Horn of Africa in order that we might be able to pursue her insight into the current plight there?