Denis Landy (Labour)

Sinn Féin wants to be a 32-county party. It is asking the ordinary people of Ireland to believe that while its supports implementation of the household charge of approximately €1,400 for a standard three bedroom house in the Six Counties it is against the introduction of this charge in the South. Most people can decipher for themselves what is and is not true.

Sinn Féin has set out in its amendment to this motion its political manifesto for the next election. As usual, while much of what it proposes is laudable none of it has been costed. Much of what is contained in the amendment is headline seeking. Sinn Féin needs to embrace politics across the 32. It policies must stand across all 32 counties rather some in the North and others in the South.

Senator White's contribution, which referred to Fianna Fáil bringing forth and implementing policies for the elderly in to the future, was interesting. What did Fianna Fáil do on behalf of the elderly during its 14 years in office? Having spent only 12 months in opposition, it now appears to have solutions to all problems. It is amazing what opposition can do for people. It crystalises their thoughts and brings great vision for the future of the country.

Senator Wilson has heckled me once or twice during my contribution. I am not proud of everything this Government has done, including the closure of Clonmel barracks next week. I will be at the barracks next Monday, 26 March, when it closes. I served in Clonmel barracks, which takes great pride of place in south Tipperary. Senator Wilson knows well that the barracks is being closed for economic reasons. We have discussed this matter on many occasions.