While I congratulate Senator Richmond on his excellent reply to the Order of Business and thank him for referencing the great village of Ahascragh, nonetheless it has been customary in this House - I am not sure whether it is covered by Standing Orders - not to refer to Members who have left the Chamber or who are absent from the Chamber. I do not blame Senator Richmond for it. It is something that has crept into the proceedings of the House. The absence of Members from the Chamber is referenced in the context of whether an extended answer is given to the issue they raised on the Order of Business. Without in any way targeting Senator Richmond, whose response was excellent and thoughtful, I ask the Cathaoirleach to rule on this matter. Those who are here are also interested in the issues raised. The key issue is what is placed on the record of the House and whether the Senator who asked the question is absent has no relation to whether he or she checks what is given by way of reply afterwards.

I thank the Senator. I get his drift.

I ask the Cathaoirleach to restore an honoured tradition.

It is not a matter for me to make a ruling on the issue. Normally, it is at the discretion of the Leader if he refers to somebody who has left or not. It was not meant in any way to be derogatory. The acting Leader covered the questions that were asked extensively.

Senator Richmond did very well. Can we all do it in the future then? All bets are off.