During the Second Stage Seanad debate on the Social Welfare Bill 2011, I said: People going on stage are advised never to share a stage with animals or children, because they cannot win against them. One should never stand up to speak after Senator Norris because one cannot win, as he speaks with such emphasis and clarity. I had planned to speak about the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Barnados and Focus Ireland, because we have been approached by all three and they have made a clear case for recognition of the problems they face and the great work they are doing...

During a Seanad debate on the Community and Voluntary Sector, I said: I welcome the Minister to the House. I appreciate all he has said and is doing, in particular in regard to the forum on philanthropy and fund-raising referred to by Senator Zappone. In regard to the philanthropy problem, it appears to me that the reason we do not have a high target is the use by wealthy people of tax breaks to avoid paying tax...

During a Seand debate on reform of the Junior Certificate, I said: I am delighted to see the Minister here, not just because we have a blood relationship but because he is a breath of fresh air, not only in the House but in that seat. He has hit the ground running and come in with enthusiasm and with a question in his mind, not just about the junior certificate but also about everything else. I wish him well and I hope everything works out well for him...

During the Second Stage debate on the Local Government (Household Charge) Bill 2011, I said: We did not get much notice of this Bill and, as Senator Keane said, we had to burn the midnight oil to get some details on it. There is little doubt that all new taxes are unwelcome and hard to stomach, especially when it is a tax that affects so many people...