The Opposition is again challenging decisions that the current Government has made mainly because of the former Government's inaction. It is a mantra. Senator Norris, who has left the Chamber, mentioned that the Members were not-----

We do not refer to anyone who has left the Chamber.

He mentioned that the Fianna Fáil Senators were not members of the last Government. I am sorry to disappoint him, but they were.

Has Senator Harte a question for the Leader?

Senator Leyden referred to the appointment of members of political parties to State boards. I was a member of Letterkenny Town Council for 17 years. For 15 of those years, every position on every committee was unapologetically and gleefully taken up by Fianna Fáil.

Has the Senator a question for the Leader?

My question relates to Senator Leyden's call on the Minister. Fianna Fáil should consider the damage it did to public bodies over the years between county councils-----

That is not appropriate to the Order of Business. Has the Senator a question for the Leader on today's business?

This Government is abolishing that council.

Abolish the Fianna Fáil party.

Who is abolishing his own town council?

I have no problem with that. The people will decide. I ask Senator Leyden-----

What about the two people who-----

Senator Harte without interruption. Has he a question for the Leader?

What about the two who did not apply for the job?

The Leader can ask the Minister to explain the appointments to the House. I will follow up by saying-----

A Labour press officer and an activist were appointed to a State body.

On a point of order, will the Cathaoirleach point out to Senator Harte that I left the Chamber on Seanad business and am now back? I thank him for his concern for my well being.

Does Senator Harte have a question for the Leader?

The Minister should explain to us how those political appointments were made. During my time on Letterkenny Town Council, Fianna Fáil took every position.

That is not relevant to the Order of Business. I call Senator Ó Murchú.

At the last election-----

That is a great defence.

That is democracy.

I will conclude by saying that-----

It is not relevant to today's business. I have called Senator Ó Murchú.

When the new council was formed after the last election, we offered Fianna Fáil the chairmanship and the vice chairmanship because it was in the minority.

Senator, that is not relevant to the Order of Business.

Fianna Fáil refused the offer-----

I have called Senator Ó Murchú.

This is the Senate, not a town council. Let me spell it, S-E-N-A-T-E.