Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would like to be associated with the remarks of previous Senators in regard to the appalling happening in Athlone and commend the gardaí on their investigation.

I am sure if the Cathaoirleach took up the invitation of Senator Norris to follow in the footsteps of his illustrious predecessor and speak to us from the floor of the House, he would have a full Chamber behind him. As many Members will know, I do not tweet so until today, I was unaware of the disparaging remarks from this alleged Fine Gael source regarding two of our foremost Independent Senators. All I can say is that I would not stand over them and would disown them, as I am sure the Taoiseach would do. We all stand in solidarity on that issue.

I can assure my great friend, Senator Wilson, that the Fine Gael director of elections is only too well aware of my views on this matter, and I do not want to go beyond that, but I have a feeling that my view does not carry much weight, if the Senator understands me.