SEANAD REPORT: Calling for a debate on Northern Ireland following the "depressing" outcome of last week's elections, Mr Brian Hayes, the Fine Gael leader in the House, said it was his personal view that, while the DUP leader, the Rev Ian Paisley, was entitled now to become first minister in Northern Ireland, "I don't believe he is fit to hold that office."
Mr Hayes said he did not think that Dr Paisley or his party had been a source for good in Northern politics. One way or the other, the British and Irish governments, with the support of their respective parliaments, had to confront that situation.
Mr Joe O'Toole (Ind) said he disagreed fundamentally with Mr Hayes. He believed that it behoved all as democrats to accept the election outcome. He was also depressed by it, but the people had spoken.
Mr Brendan Ryan (Lab) said he had "colourful" views about Dr Paisley, but he was not aware of any DUP member who had been convicted of killing, shooting or bombing anybody. Partial statements should not be made about who was culpable for what.
Mr John Minihan, (PD), said he would caution against inflammatory remarks. They had to respect democracy. Mr John Dardis (PD), said they had known for many years what Dr Paisley was against. "We are now going to have to find out what he is for."
Mr David Norris (Ind) said he was not at all upset by the election result. He thought it was probably a good thing. The parties which had been most successful were the ones which were causing all the trouble. "Let them get into office and face the realities of life."