I wish to extend the condolences of this side of the House to the family of Dick Walsh, the eminent political writer. He wrote with great integrity for many years. I particularly admire how he overcame his physical infirmity to continue his journalistic work. It was a remarkable feat of resilience. We also send our best wishes to Senator Cummins. I was unaware that he had been involved in an accident. We all wish him a speedy recovery.
I pay tribute to the Minister of State, Deputy Michael Ahern, and his officials. He stepped into the bearna baoil with great dignity and composure. He grew into the Bill and displayed a profound understanding of it. I will not thank everyone who thanked me, I will give a general thanks. Senator Brian Hayes said I had listened to his arguments. I had many arguments with myself and my colleagues, whom I consulted all week. The Senator wanted a guarantee on amendments, but I cannot offer him that.
Next Thursday we will debate Report and Final Stages. The Seanad is being adjourned today in order that the five Senators who are members of the committee are free to attend its meeting. Senator Finucane was right when he pointed out that Senators will be the most learned members of the committee because they have a deep knowledge of the Bill that Deputies do not possess.
Senator Brian Hayes and others mentioned the assassination of the Prime Minister of Serbia. It was a dreadful blow to democracy and the people of that country. As the Senator spoke, I thought of Archduke Franz Ferdinand at Sarajevo when he was assassinated on the eve of a war. As Senator Hanafin pointed out, the historical analogies are striking. Senator Ryan also mentioned the assassination. We send out our strongest condemnation of the murder. The implications are huge because there were clearly people who were out to get the Prime Minister. I will arrange for my office to send a message of sympathy on behalf of the Seanad.
Senator O'Toole explained a remark that was made and I accept what he said. He called for the Houses to be made more electronically-friendly, an issue on which we all agree. I will also arrange for a debate on competition.
Senator Ryan inquired about the use of the guillotine. The Committee on Procedure and Privileges will look at the alleged ambiguity in its use.
Senator Finucane raised the Education (Welfare) Bill. I have raised the issue with the Department and the Minister. Senator Norris spoke of the need for a debate on Iraq. I thank him for also raising the untimely death of Mr. Dick Walsh and I thank Senator O'Meara, who spoke about her knowledge of him when she was a journalist.
I wish to correct Senator Higgins. He implied that the Committee and Report Stages were taken together. They were not; Committee Stage was taken over two days and Report Stage was to take place today. The Second Stage debate took place last week and everyone who wanted to speak was able to do so. We could not keep going at 2.45 a.m., when there was no one else to speak. Second Stage was certainly not guillotined. Committee and Report Stages clearly did not take place in one day.
Senator Coghlan asked about the audit of surplus State property. The Minister of State, Deputy Parlon, has informed me that he will come before the House and explain what is intended.
I am sorry to tell Senator Quinn that I am wearing an orange blouse.