Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Irish Government has not been and will never be found wanting in that regard. The Fine Gael Party, which was the party that negotiated Sunningdale and is a co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement, will always put the people of Ireland and all of our country first in our endeavours and engagements.

Senator Ardagh raised the issue of housing.I will be happy to have the new Minister, whoever he or she may be, to come to the House in the coming weeks.

Senator Gerard P. Craughwell referred to the men of Jadotville. I join him in welcoming the announcement made by the outgoing Taoiseach and the Minister of State, Deputy Paul Kehoe, on the awarding of a medal. I thank him and Senators Pádraig Mac Lochlainn, Diarmuid Wilson and, most especially, Gabrielle McFadden for their role in ensuring this is a good day, one of celebration for the families of the men of Jadotville, the soldiers who fought in the battle. The mission to Congo, the first on which the United Nations sent Irish troops, will always be remembered, but it is important that Ireland finally remove the little black mark and congratulate all those who took part in the campaign. I again thank the outgoing Taoiseach and the Minister of State.

Senator Gerard P. Craughwell also referred to the Sale of Alcohol Bill. As he knows, I am not yet a member of the Cabinet and do not expect to be tomorrow either. I understand the amendment associated with the Good Friday Bill was passed by the Cabinet today and that it is a matter of timing. I gave a commitment as Leader of the House to have it passed before the summer recess. Whoever is Leader next week can certainly honour that commitment. It is certainly my intention to do so, if I am still Leader. If not, I hope the new Leader will do so.

Senator Paddy Burke referred to section 309 of the Fisheries (Amendment) Bill which contains a loophole in dealing with poaching. Committee Stage of the legislation was taken in March. There are issues arising and the Department is considering them. The Bill will be before the House next week. I am not sure if it dovetails with the other Bill, but I am sure the Senator can raise the matters he wishes to raise when discussing it.

Senator Michael McDowell spoke with sadness about the demise of the outgoing Taoiseach and a lack of sadness, or perhaps gaiety, about impending Seanad reform.