I regret very much that Deputy Frank Feighan was not appointed a Minister of State.

Look who is running in the by-election.

It was an extraordinary move considering a by-election is looming that the Government is guaranteed to lose. They have no opportunity-----

I ask the Senator not to make political statements today.

I do not have the time as I am too busy. This recess is a happier one than last year's when we were faced with annihilation due to the proposed abolition of the Seanad. Last year Members thought it was the last time they would leave the House and the Seanad would be abolished.

The Senator is way over time and is completely out of order. I call Senator Conway.

I am trying to make a state of the nation speech. I ask the Cathaoirleach to give me some latitude due to the fact that I am the longest serving Member of the House and the Oireachtas.