On my drive up today, as I do most weeks, I reflected on my role in politics and the job I do. I have been involved in public service for 15 years, be it as a local councillor, as a member of An Garda Síochána or now having the honour of being a member of Seanad Éireann. In public service or in any walk of life, as a human being or being involved in a Government party, it is a sign of strength when you come out and admit you could have done better or that we got something wrong or that we need to improve on things.

I speak plainly without notes, without any speaking points and I have not seen anything happen in the Dáil today. I speak for me, as Noel O'Donovan, a citizen and a proud person who lives in west Cork. As for my background, my great-grand-uncle was the first TD for West Cork. He was a Sinn Féin TD for West Cork. We became Free State and supported the Treaty. As soon as I could work, I went on a building site and worked hard. Hard work is my ethos. The vast majority of the people who went out on protest were good hard-working-class people in this State and I accept, admit and know that. However, there is a but. I accept protest; I do not support blockades. The vast majority of people who protested did not support the blockade either. We have a helicopter circulating over this building today. All of us as public representatives, whether in government or in opposition, need to question where we are getting to. Governments have to learn lessons, as my colleague, Senator Brady, has said. Within my party, we have to reflect. Politics is about leadership, standing up and being strong. I thank the people across west Cork who have contacted me in recent days. I have not shied away from it, that is, speaking online and taking the abuse and anger. I accept that. I am a public representative. I know who pays for me to be here. I know who paid my fuel to get up here today and I acknowledge that within this House. I will talk about it later.

I acknowledge the Minister, Deputy Heydon, and the Tánaiste for their engagement with me in the past few days but I will make my views known within this Chamber and within the parliamentary party room that we all need to do better in this State. My views are quite straight.