I know the Leader will respond to the Senator's question about the schedule. He gave an indication last week to colleagues - we were all very much aware that next week is Europe week - that we would have a number of MEPs here this week and that the European Commissioner would attend next week; therefore, it was in line with the schedule. Yesterday he also gave Senators in attendance a full response about the difficulty of scheduling the attendance of Ministers during our Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

That is a load of rubbish, with respect.

The Leader gave a full response.

We held the Presidency in the past and we never had that problem, with all due respect.

Senator Bacik, please, to continue, without interruption.

Senator Bacik should not give us old waffle now. Go out and get some Ministers and bring them in here. Stand up for yourselves. Show a bit of old backbone.

I listened courteously and did not interrupt anyone, even though I disagreed.

I disagree with the Senator on that one. The Senator is waffling.

The Senator has waffled often enough in the House, yet I have sat and listened to him.

Therefore I should know a good waffle when I hear one.

Let us have some order.

I must say, for those who are critical of the people's views on the Seanad, the Opposition is doing a great job of running it down with that sort of behaviour.

Come on, a Chathaoirligh.

One listens courteously.

Do not be so childish.

We have listened courteously.

Do not be so precious. Please talk sense.

Does Senator Bacik have a question for the Leader?

Personal insults and calling people childish and precious should have no place in a House of Parliament.

You poor girl.

It is absolutely despicable for the Senator to descend to that level and it is beneath him.

I have been rebuked.