I would also like to congratulate the Minister, Deputy Burton, on her election as leader of the Labour Party. She is the first woman in the history of the Labour Party to be elected into that position. Indeed, she is the first woman to be elected to lead any significant political party in this State.

The Labour Party might not be significant for long.

I welcome the comments she has made since her election, particularly about improving the plight of those on low incomes. I was personally impressed by what she said about prioritising social and affordable housing. At present, six people are presenting to the services of Threshold every day because they are at risk of becoming homeless. There is a huge and crushing need for additional housing in Dublin, in particular. I appreciate the new Tánaiste's decision to make that a priority. I also welcome her comment that we will rule with our heads and our hearts, and not just with our heads, as we go forward.

Does that mean all the cuts that were introduced in the last two social protection budgets will be reversed?

I can understand why Senator O'Brien is reluctant to disclose his age.

Why? Is it because the Government might take something off me?