David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Yes. The section is directed by language. I would have thought that was clear, philosophically. A tender implies a contract and a sale. The Minister of State is wrong to say one cannot sell a lease. Of course, one can and it happens every day. If one goes to London, buildings are often not bought outright as they are so enormously expensive. One buys a lease. The cost may be €1 million for a 20 year lease. If one buys something, it must be for sale. Therefore, this is a sale. It is not a sale for infinity, but then "infinity" is a problematic concept which few Members understand completely. This is something of a problem. There is no logical or philosophical reason to discount the change of title suggested by Senator Marie Louise O'Donnell.

I compliment the Minister of State on his fine use of Hiberno English in terms of language and pronunciation in referring to "vagaries". It is an Irish word and has an Irish meaning. Among the English stress is placed on the first syllable. I say this for the benefit of anyone on the neighbouring island who is listening on their twiddly thing.