Does the Senator wish to raise a matter on the Order of Business?

Of course. I wish to support Senators Darragh O'Brien, Bacik and Norris who was particularly passionate in his contribution in their comments on next Saturday's referendum. An all-party committee appointed by the previous Government brought forward the first wording in respect of this matter which was agreed by all of the parties. That committee was chaired by Mary O'Rourke, who did an excellent job. The previous Government brought forward a particular wording and the current Administration has put forward its own wording. I commend the latter on putting this issue to the people in a referendum in such austere times. This matter is being dealt with approximately 40 to 50 years too late. During that period, young people have been deprived of the right to have responsible parents and to be adopted in the appropriate circumstances. The necessary safeguards are in place. I commend all those who are supporting the constitutional amendment.

The comments and statements made on Monday's edition of "The Frontline" were bizarre and completely outrageous. I concur with Senator Norris in that regard. I resent continued references to the "Roscommon case". The way in which this case is referred to infers that people in Roscommon ignored what occurred.

It infers that it happened in Roscommon.

Yes, but there have been similar cases in every county throughout Ireland.

I absolutely accept that. These cases, including the Kilkenny incest case, have become known by the names of the places in which they occurred.

I would prefer if there were no comments from other Senators on this matter. Senator Norris has already made his point.

In the context of that to which Senator Norris refers, it was the very people who are campaigning for a "No" vote on Saturday next that went to the High Court in order to prevent social workers in Roscommon from carrying out their duties. Those are the facts.

I also resent the outrageous allegations that have been made in certain newspaper articles, etc. The constitutional amendment will be good for children and Ireland. I will do my utmost to ensure that the referendum is passed on Saturday next. As Senator Bacik stated, they could be-----

The Senator's time is exhausted.