I wish to support Senator Coghlan's proposal that Members send best wishes to Pope Benedict XVI on his decision to stand down as Bishop of Rome and Head of the Vatican State. It is a great decision for him in the sense he is 85 years of age. However, it is very historic from Members' perspective, as this is the first Seanad of which I have been a Member when a Pope has actually resigned.

It is certainly-----

We are all in the one boat.

It has not happened for 500 years.

The last time was 600 years ago.

On a point of order, I put it on record that Senator Leyden did not call for it.

We are not around for that long - 600 years. Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?

We should not trivialise this important event. There are 1.2 billion Catholics in the world. One sixth of the entire population is Catholic and the role of Pope is an important one. Ageism does not apply in the Vatican, which is refreshing. Furthermore-----

What about sexism?

Well said.

The Senator is over time.

I suggest-----

Senator Leyden should be allowed to speak without interruption.

I understand that we will be represented by Cardinal Brady at the conclave, which is good. Britain has no representative at the moment as there is no cardinal eligible to vote.

The Senator is over time.

I am sorry.

A lot of Senators have indicated.

When the new Pope-----

Senator Leyden should be allowed to speak without interruption.

Senator Leyden is interfering between church and State.

When the new Pope is elected I suggest to the Government that we would re-open our embassy in the Vatican as a gesture of solidarity.