Senator David Norris made a brilliant and impasioned speech today praising Iraqi bravery

by Blisset Wed Mar 26, 2003 10:34

Dr. Mansergh: I agree with Senator Brian Hayes that we should have an opportunity to comment on significant observations by the Central Bank. We are taking the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland Bill on Thursday, which will provide an opportunity to do so. No doubt the Finance Bill and the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill will also provide an opportunity to do so to some degree. I support Senator O'Toole's suggestion that we should have a debate on the social partnership agreement next week, if possible.

Mr. Norris: Listening to the Order of Business, I wonder if an order has gone out from somewhere not to mention the war. We are facing a catastrophe. I ask the Leader to consider a suggestion I made last week that the House conduct a series of rolling debates. We should set aside at least one hour each week so that we can follow the progress of the war. We are obliged to follow it.

Originally there was talk of liberating Basra, but now there is talk of it as a military target. The campaign has been described as "Operation Iraqi Freedom", but it is "operation rape oil".

An Cathaoirleach: The House debated the situation in Iraq last week.

Mr. Norris: I am aware of that, but it is vital that some things are said. The people in Iraq are not fighting for Saddam Hussein. They are fighting for their families, their poor little homes and their children, like the six year old girl who had her leg blown off and whose picture was in yesterday's Irish Independent. I opposed Saddam Hussein with my feeble efforts, such as they were, when others supported him. Today, in this House, I salute the bravery and courage of the Iraqi people in standing up to this criminal aggression. The sooner there is regime change in Washington the better for the planet.

Mr. Bannon: The Health Research Board recently launched its report on the two main methods of waste disposal and outlined in detail the health and environmental effects of landfill and incineration. It is important that the Minister for the Environment and Local Government is invited to come before the House as a matter of urgency to debate this emotive issue, which is a cause of great public concern.

Mr. Quinn: The Companies (Auditing and Accounting) Bill - a Seanad Bill - has just been published. It is detailed legislation. Will the Leader indicate when it will be introduced and will she ensure it is given sufficient attention?

by sore bum Wed Mar 26, 2003 19:38

unlike the fianna fail traitors who took the shilling.