Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As ever, I recognise that Senator MacSharry is a consummate actor. This morning he appeared to speak in measured tones which were much at variance with some of his more recent utterances in the House. That is an attribute he has acquired from years of experience on stage, which I acknowledge. Nobody wants to have a row over this matter but it was clearly understood that of the two Senators to be appointed to this committee, one would come from this side of the House and the other would come from the Opposition. I am not complaining about anything but there was rather short notice of the meeting to which the Senator referred. I think I received notice at 12 noon and the meeting was held at 7 p.m. on the same day. I do not want to revisit the issue because I am sure matters will proceed satisfactorily. I do not even know that the Senator was quoting properly or accurately that reasonable man, the Taoiseach. I suggest that speed is no longer of the essence. This is something we have needed for years but, given our constitutional position and the rights enshrined therein, this matter could not be dealt with while cases were proceeding in the courts. As we say in my part of the country, "Will you take it easy?" Rest easy and things will satisfactorily resolve themselves in due course.