Paraic Brady (Fine Gael)

I would like to be associated with all of the comments about Senator Andrews.

I would also like to discuss the Ryder Cup and what Europe achieved in the past week. We are proud of one of our own who made the final putt to secure the Ryder Cup for the European team. It is very special and will live not only in the minds of every golfer in Ireland but in the European team to have had such a comeback. In fairness, the Americans have to be commended on their comeback. However, that is not why I rise today. I want to speak about how the American fans conducted themselves during what was a sporting occasion. We saw the abuse Rory McIlroy endured along with Shane Lowry and other competitors. It is utterly disgusting that on such an occasion, professionals players received such abuse from fans. I hope the matter is discussed by the relevant authorities. This happened in America - in their house. If it happened in Ireland or any other European state, it would be discussed in their house. It is appropriate we discuss in this House the conduct of people towards our sporting heroes. I hope the fans who showed this disrespect will be dealt with in a timely manner. Ireland will host the Ryder Cup in two years' time. I hope those people will be named and shamed and will not enter this country for the spectacle. We will show people how we run an occasion. I look forward to that.