Prelude
Pursuant to Resolutions passed by Dáil Éireann and by Seanad Éireann both Houses met in the Dáil Chamber at 3 p.m., the Ceann Comhairle presiding.
Prayer.
The Taoiseach (Deputy John Bruton), the Tánaiste (Deputy Dick Spring), the Minister for Social Welfare (Deputy Proinsias De Rossa), Deputy Bertie Ahern (Leader of Fianna Fáil) and Deputy Mary Harney (Leader of the Progressive Democrats) conducted William J. Clinton, President of the United States of America, to the dais, where, Members standing and applauding, he was received by the Ceann Comhairle (Deputy Seán Treacy).
The President then took his seat on the dais beside the Ceann Comhairle.