David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I wish to be associated with the remarks about the commemoration of the First World War. My father was heavily decorated in that war. However, I have to say I think it was a frightful mistake. If I had been around at the time I probably would have fought for the Austrians because of Strauss, JB Fischer von Erlach and Franz Josef's wonderful moustache and beard. However, it was a horrendous mistake and a thorough waste of lives.

I wish to express my solidarity with the farmers. Their treatment by the meat industry has been absolutely outrageous, in particular, people like Mr. Larry Goodman whose career in the meat industry has not been covered with glory. I support them in getting a living, decent wage for the animals that they rear in this country. I do not believe they are getting it at the moment. The differential between what the farmers get and the price for which supermarkets sell the meat is really intolerable.

I also wish to be associated with the remarks about Mr. Brian Farrell. I did a couple of broadcasts with him. I knew him a bit. He was a sophisticated, decent man, a most brilliant commentator and analyst of elections. Part of the enjoyment of general elections was to sit in front of the television and watch Brian Farrell parse and analyse the figures as they came in and interview very directly and very clearly the principal participants. I had not realised he was quite as old as he was. However, 85 is nothing nowadays. I wish to send my sympathy to his family.