"A major drain on the State."

The Leader to respond, without interruption.

If I may continue?

The Leader may.

The councillor has apologised for his remarks. I do not in any way condone any inflammatory, racist or intolerant remarks.

"Stick a chain on them."

Please, Senator Ó Ríordáin.

That is the reality of it. In my party he would have been kicked out.

The Senator is out of order.

I am out of order? This joker down in Limerick is out of order.

I have to keep order here. The Leader is responding. Senator Ó Ríordáin can find another opportunity to do that.

I understand that the councillor has apologised for his remarks.

I have read his remarks and I do not believe he has apologised.

Allow the Leader to continue, please.

Sometimes it is good to listen.

With the greatest respect, I hope nobody is listening to this man.

I will not tolerate further discussion of this issue on the Order of Business.

Do we take racism seriously or not?

The Senator is out of order. Allow the Leader to respond, please.