I have spent 12 years in the Seanad. I am a full-time Senator; I am on the job seven days a week helping people around the country. I felt very diminished by what had happened in recent months, but I have been re-energised and I am moving forward.

I raise a very important issue. On the front page of the Irish Independent today there is a picture of Gay Byrne with his friend, Bertie Ahern. Underneath the picture it states: "Gay: I'll quit day job at 80." Some months ago I introduced a Bill in the Seanad to end compulsory retirement at 65 years.

With all due respect, if Mr. Gay Byrne can continue his job until he decides to go and Mr. Pat Kenny can also decide when he wishes to go, why are we depriving older Irish citizens of the opportunity to remain in their jobs after 65 years of age if they wish to do so or to work part time? In addition, this is an issue on which the Whip system should be withdrawn. We want to improve society and equality for Irish people. I will push this Bill.

Bring back Bertie.

We have had Second Stage and it was supported on all sides. This is Fianna Fáil policy and the Bill was seconded by Senator John Crown. The Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Phil Hogan, said that while he did not normally agree with Fianna Fáil policy, he was glad this one was put forward. It had the support of practically all Senators but due to the Whip system, the Government Senators had to vote against it. I am calling for a new way of doing business here. I will push this issue forward. I am here to improve society and help Irish people. We should abolish the concept of mandatory retirement at 65 years of age.