David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I add my words of compliment to Senator Ó Clochartaigh. I like to regard him as a friend. He represents the best side of Sinn Féin through his interest in human rights, justice and equality, matters about which he spoke with great knowledge and passion. I am not at all surprised that he chose a quote John O'Donohue on justice and equality. I have always found the Senator gentlemanly and courteous in all his dealings. I wish him well. Níl mo chuid Gaeilge flúirseach ar fad, but I speak it occasionally in the House out of deference to people such as Senator Ó Clochartaigh who use this House to speak the most beautiful Irish. One could listen to him for ever. His Irish is also understandable. He articulates it and one knows where he is going and what the meaning is.

I wish him well with TG4, which is an excellent station. The TG4 documentaries are the best that are broadcast in this country; they are absolutely superb. Many of the programmes that have discussions and so on also have subtitles to help viewers who do not know a word here and then. He is continuing one element, at least, of his work with TG4.

Speaking as a trade unionist, I ask the Cathaoirleach to use his good offices to ensure that Members who cannot come to the House because of the weather - Leinster House being closed and everything else - should get credit in terms of fobbing in. If we are disbarred from the place, it is not our fault if we cannot come here and fob in. There should be some flexibility here. We should get credit for it. Many workers get paid during the snow. The whole fobbing-in thing is a complete and utter nonsense in any event. None of the Ministers have to do it and the secretaries do not have to do it. It is a complete and utter sham and nonsense. The public is not in the slightest bit impressed by it.