Before taking up the business on the Order Paper, perhaps you would allow me, Sir, to intervene on a matter of personal explanation?
Personal Explanation.
The Senator has my permission.
During Senator MacDermot's speech on the Central Fund Bill last week, and provoked by certain remarks made by the Senator, I made use of expressions for which I was called to order by you and for which on that occasion I expressed regret to you. I realised since that in repeating those expressions in withdrawing from the House I might be held to have transgressed further the Rules of the Seanad. When I did so wrote an apology to you, Sir, and I now desire again to express my regret and to make my apology to the House.
I am glad that the Senator has taken that action. The matter is now closed.