Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

If the Minister of State had been in a bit earlier he would have found out that I introduced numerous pieces of legislation in this House, including the Adoption (No. 2) Bill 1987. I debated with the former Minister, Nuala Fennell, and the former President, Mary Robinson. I will not read out the details now, as I read them out earlier.

At the time, the departmental officials used to be very nervous when Senator Mary Robinson was here. In fact, Senators may recall that sittings were held in the ante-room as this Chamber was being refurbished. I feared nothing, including Mary Robinson, because she was a nice, decent and fair woman. I found out that she was a good debater and it was worthwhile discussing matters with her. I dealt with more issues than just those pertaining to the Department of Health.