Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am happy to accept Senator Ó Domhnaill's amendment to the Order of Business.

I join Senator Gallagher in asking that the 1890 telephone number be reviewed. It beggars belief that when one calls a Department, one is charged an astronomical amount of money. As Senator Feighan said, it is an outdated model of delivery. I would be happy to have a debate on the matter in the House.

Senator Ned O'Sullivan raised the by-election and the love fest. The Fianna Fáil Party was trying to get Sinn Féin votes too but it fell short in that regard. As Senator Conway-Walsh would say, "Why would they anyway, given the hostility of Deputy Micheál Martin to them?" It is important to recognise that today is Senator Marshall's and Senator Lawlor's day.

I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach for his indulgence. I apologise to the Tánaiste for the delay. We have two new Members who spoke very eloquently. Again, I formally welcome them.